As the cycling world gears up for the Waalse Pijl on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, all eyes will be on the iconic Muur van Hoei, where legends are made and races are decided. This year, the competition is fierce, with a star-studded lineup featuring Remco Evenepoel, Tadej Pogacar, and rising star Thibau Nys, all vying for supremacy on the challenging course.
The Waalse Pijl, known for its steep climbs and thrilling finishes, will kick off at 11:35 AM from Ciney and cover a distance of 205.2 kilometers, culminating in a finish expected between 4:10 PM and 4:35 PM in Huy. The race will be broadcast live on Sporza, Eurosport 1, and other networks, allowing fans to witness the drama unfold.
This year's race promises to be particularly captivating as Pogacar returns after a year away from the event. The reigning world champion, who claimed victory in 2023, will be looking to assert his dominance once again. However, his recent performance in the Amstel Gold Race, where he finished second, has raised questions about his current form. "I felt strong for most of the race, but I just ran out of gas in the final sprint," Pogacar admitted. "I’m looking forward to the challenge of the Muur van Hoei. It’s a climb that demands everything from you, and I’m ready to give it my all."
Meanwhile, Remco Evenepoel, who has made a sensational return to form after a serious injury, is also a key contender. After finishing third in the Amstel Gold Race, Evenepoel is eager to prove himself on the Muur. "I’ve been working hard to come back stronger, and I feel like I’m getting there. The Waalse Pijl is a race I want to win, and I’ll give it everything I have," he stated confidently.
Adding to the intrigue is the young Belgian talent Thibau Nys, who has been touted by teammate Mattias Skjelmose as the only rider capable of defeating Pogacar on the Muur van Hoei. "If Thibau has his day, he can definitely challenge anyone, even Tadej," Skjelmose declared. Nys, who recently had a solid performance in the Amstel Gold Race, is eager to make a mark in his first Waalse Pijl appearance.
The race route includes several challenging climbs, with the Muur van Hoei being the most formidable. Riders will face the Côte de Cherave and the Côte de Ereffe before tackling the steep ascent of the Muur, which features sections exceeding 15% gradient. Historically, the climb has proven to be a decisive factor in the outcome of the race. "Timing your attack on the Muur is crucial," explained former champion Julian Alaphilippe, a three-time winner of the Waalse Pijl. "It’s not just about strength; it’s about strategy and knowing when to make your move."
Weather conditions on race day are expected to be less severe than last year, with forecasts predicting rain and temperatures around 16 degrees Celsius. While not ideal, the conditions should not deter the riders. The light wind from the northeast may play a role, especially during the final stretches.
As the peloton prepares to tackle the Waalse Pijl, the anticipation is palpable. With a mix of seasoned champions and hungry newcomers, the race is set to be a thrilling spectacle. Fans will be eager to see if Pogacar can reclaim his title, if Evenepoel will continue his comeback story, or if Nys will rise to the occasion and challenge the elite.
In addition to the favorites, other riders to watch include Mattias Skjelmose, who recently won the Amstel Gold Race, and Tom Pidcock, who is looking to improve upon his sixth-place finish in the Waalse Pijl from 2021. Romain Grégoire, who finished seventh in the Amstel, is also expected to be a strong contender.
As the clock ticks down to the start of the Waalse Pijl, the excitement builds. Will Tadej Pogacar defend his title, or will a new champion emerge from the shadows? One thing is certain: the Muur van Hoei will once again be the stage for an unforgettable showdown among the best in cycling.
