The Amstel Gold Race 2025 is set to unfold this Sunday, April 20, featuring a grueling 256-kilometer route from Maastricht to Berg en Terblijt. This year’s race promises to be a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the best of cycling talent as riders tackle the relentless climbs of Limburg. Known for its unique and challenging terrain, the Amstel Gold Race is the first of the three Ardennes classics and attracts both rouleurs and climbers alike.
As the riders gear up for the race, they’ll face a series of significant climbs, including the notorious Gulperberg, Kruisberg, Eyserbosweg, Fromberg, and Keutenberg. With 47 kilometers to go, the Gulperberg presents a steep challenge at 6%, followed closely by the Kruisberg, which rises at 7.3% over 700 meters. Eyserbosweg, Fromberg, and Keutenberg will further test the riders' endurance, with the Cauberg looming large as the race progresses.
The Cauberg, an iconic climb coming with just 22 kilometers remaining, is 800 meters long at a gradient of 6.5%. Riders will need to conserve energy as they approach the Geulhemmerberg and Bemelerberg, both of which could serve as launching pads for decisive attacks. The race finishes in Berg en Terblijt after a fast descent leading into the final climb, summiting just 2 kilometers from the finish line. This layout is expected to create a dynamic and unpredictable finale.
Among the favorites for victory is Tadej Pogačar, who leads the UAE Team Emirates-XRG. Known for his strategic racing style, Pogačar won the Amstel Gold Race in 2023 after a daring attack with 83 kilometers to go. “The Ardennes races will be a new challenge,” Pogačar stated. “They are three hard one-day races packed into a week, but I feel we have the team to be able to challenge in each of them.” His team includes formidable riders such as Tim Wellens, Jhonatan Narváez, and Pavel Sivakov, all of whom will support Pogačar's efforts.
Wout van Aert from Visma also figures prominently in the conversation, having honed his strategy through the cobbled classics. Van Aert, along with teammate Tiesj Benoot, is expected to play a crucial role in the race, with their experience from previous races likely proving beneficial. “We’ve learned from our mistakes in recent weeks, and we won’t start with a sole leader,” Van Aert remarked, highlighting the importance of teamwork in this challenging race.
Tom Pidcock, leading the charge for Q36.5, is another strong contender. His impressive performances this season have positioned him as a serious threat, especially if he can replicate the form he showed at Strade Bianche and Tirreno-Adriatico. “I’m feeling good and ready to take on the challenge,” said Pidcock, as he prepares to navigate the tough terrain.
Thibau Nys is also expected to make waves, possessing the explosivity needed to match Pogačar and van der Poel on the climbs. His recent form has been impressive, particularly after winning the GP Miguel Indurain. “I believe I can be in the mix if I time my attacks well,” Nys commented, showcasing his confidence heading into the race.
Meanwhile, Remco Evenepoel returns to competitive racing after recovering from a shoulder injury. His presence adds another layer of excitement to the event, as he looks to reclaim his top form and challenge for the title. Evenepoel’s team, Soudal-Quick-Step, has depth with other riders like Max Schachmann and Ilan van Wilder, both of whom can make significant contributions.
While Pogačar, van Aert, and Pidcock dominate the headlines, other riders such as Axel Laurance, Ben Healy, and Neilson Powless are poised to surprise. Laurance has shown promise in previous races, while Healy’s recent performances suggest he could be a dark horse. “I’m ready to give it my all and see where that takes me,” Healy stated, indicating his determination to make an impact.
As the race approaches, fans and analysts alike are buzzing with anticipation. The Amstel Gold Race has a reputation for unpredictability, and the 2025 edition is shaping up to be no different. The combination of challenging climbs, strategic racing, and a star-studded lineup promises an exhilarating day of cycling.
In addition to the men’s race, the Amstel Gold Race Ladies Edition will also take place on April 20, making it a significant day for cycling enthusiasts. This year marks the 11th edition of the women’s race, which continues to be a key event in the Women’s WorldTour calendar.
Last year’s race saw Marianne Vos clinch victory, becoming the first two-time winner since the race returned in 2017. This year, Lorena Wiebes is the favorite after a stellar spring campaign that included wins at Sanremo Women and Gent-Wevelgem. “I have unfinished business at Amstel Gold Race Women,” Wiebes expressed, eager to improve upon her second-place finish from last year.
The women’s race will also feature strong competitors like Lotte Kopecky, who finished second in 2023, and Demi Vollering, the 2023 champion, who will be looking to reclaim her title. With the addition of the Nijswillerweg climb and the familiar challenges of the Kruisberg and Cauberg, the race promises to be both exciting and competitive.
As both races unfold, the cycling world will be watching closely. With the men’s and women’s events taking place on the same day, fans can expect a thrilling showcase of talent and endurance. The Amstel Gold Race 2025 is set to be a highlight of the cycling calendar, and the excitement is palpable as riders prepare to take on the challenges that lie ahead.
