The excitement is building as the cycling world gears up for the 2025 edition of Liège-Bastogne-Liège, often referred to as "La Doyenne" due to its status as the oldest professional bike race, first held in 1892. This year’s race, set for Sunday, April 27, promises to deliver a thrilling showdown among the best riders in the sport, particularly in the women’s race, where the competition is wide open.
Liège-Bastogne-Liège is known for its challenging 252-kilometer course, which includes a staggering 3,700 meters of climbing. The final ascent, the Côte de la Roche-aux-Faucons, looms just 13 kilometers from the finish line, making it a pivotal point for riders looking to secure victory. The last 100 kilometers of the race will see competitors tackle nine tough climbs, including the Côte de la Redoute and the Côte des Forges, before the decisive Roche-aux-Faucons climb.
In the women’s race, Demi Vollering enters as a strong favorite, having previously completed the Ardennes triple in 2023. With a solid support team from SD Worx, including Juliette Labous and Elise Chabbey, Vollering's experience and climbing prowess make her a formidable contender. However, she faces stiff competition from Elisa Longo Borghini, who has finished on the podium in both 2023 and 2024, and Puck Pieterse, who recently won Flèche Wallonne and is known for her impressive climbing ability.
"I’m feeling good and ready for the challenge ahead," said Vollering, who aims to secure her third title at Liège-Bastogne-Liège. "The team is strong, and we’ve been working together well this season. I believe we can achieve a great result."
Longo Borghini echoed those sentiments, emphasizing her determination to finally claim victory after coming so close in previous years. "I’ve had some near misses, but I feel confident in my form heading into this race," she stated. "Liège is a race I’ve always wanted to win, and I’ll give it my all."
On the men’s side, Tadej Pogačar is the overwhelming favorite, having won the race in both 2021 and 2024. His recent performances, particularly a dominant victory at Flèche Wallonne, have solidified his status as the rider to beat. "I’m feeling strong and ready for the challenge of Liège," Pogačar remarked. "The climbs suit my style, and I’m excited to see how the race unfolds."
Remco Evenepoel, who has also claimed victory in this prestigious race twice, is expected to be Pogačar's main rival. After a slightly disappointing performance at Flèche Wallonne, where he finished ninth, Evenepoel is eager to bounce back. "I know I can compete with Tadej, and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to race against him again," he said.
Mattias Skjelmose, the recent Amstel Gold Race winner, is another key contender, despite sustaining injuries in a crash during Flèche Wallonne. His aggressive racing style and willingness to attack early could play a crucial role in the outcome of the race.
As the race approaches, teams are finalizing their strategies. SD Worx is all-in for Vollering, while UAE Team Emirates is rallying around Pogačar. Other notable teams include Lidl-Trek, who will support Skjelmose, and EF Education-EasyPost, aiming for a strong performance from Ben Healy.
Fans will be eagerly tuning in to watch the race unfold, with coverage available on various platforms worldwide. In the UK, viewers can catch the action on TNT Sports and Discovery+, while fans in the US can watch on Peacock. Australia will enjoy free coverage on SBS, and Canadian fans can tune in via FloBikes.
As the cycling community prepares for this monumental event, the question on everyone’s lips is: who will emerge victorious in this year’s Liège-Bastogne-Liège? With a mix of past champions and rising stars, the stage is set for an unforgettable race that will surely leave fans on the edge of their seats.
Whether it’s the fierce competition among the women or the thrilling battle between Pogačar and Evenepoel in the men’s race, Liège-Bastogne-Liège 2025 promises to be a highlight of the cycling calendar. As riders gear up for the challenge, all eyes will be on the climbs that have defined this historic race.
