In a thrilling display of endurance and strategy, the 2025 edition of Liège-Bastogne-Liège Femmes unfolded today, April 27, in Belgium. This prestigious cycling race, known for its challenging climbs and tactical racing, saw fierce competition among the elite women cyclists.
The race kicked off at 10:55 AM ET in Liège, featuring a grueling 152.9 km route that took riders from Bastogne back to Liège. The course included notorious climbs such as the Côte de Saint-Roch, Côte de Mont-le-Soie, and the iconic Côte de la Roche-aux-Faucons, which often serves as the final battleground for competitors.
Last year's champion, Grace Brown of FDJ-SUEZ, was looking to defend her title after a stunning victory in 2024, where she outpaced Elisa Longo Borghini and Demi Vollering in a dramatic finish. Brown's tactical prowess was on display last year, and fans were eager to see if she could replicate that performance.
As the race progressed, it became clear that the competition would be fierce. With the final 30 kilometers approaching, the tension escalated when an unexpected incident occurred. A fan, donning a UAE Team Emirates - XRG jersey, surprisingly rode onto the course, colliding with Pauliena Rooijakkers, who had just launched an attack and had established a significant gap. This bizarre moment was caught on camera, leaving viewers in shock as Rooijakkers narrowly avoided a potentially race-altering crash.
Despite the chaos, Rooijakkers remained focused and continued her charge. The incident, while alarming, highlighted the unpredictable nature of live cycling events, where anything can happen in the blink of an eye. The race continued, with the elite cyclists navigating the treacherous climbs and sharp turns that characterize this classic.
Key climbs that tested the riders included the Côte de Wanne, Côte de Stockeu, and the Côte de Desnié, each presenting unique challenges that could make or break a competitor's chances. The Côte de la Redoute, a legendary ascent, was particularly crucial, often serving as the launchpad for decisive attacks as riders sought to break away from the pack.
As the cyclists neared the final stretch, the atmosphere was electric. Fans lined the route, cheering on their favorites and creating a vibrant backdrop to the intense competition. With each climb, the tension mounted, and the battle for the podium intensified.
In the end, the race concluded with a thrilling sprint to the finish line. Although the specific results were still unfolding at the time of this report, the excitement surrounding the event was palpable. Fans eagerly awaited to see who would emerge victorious in this renowned monument of cycling.
Liège-Bastogne-Liège Femmes is not just a test of physical strength but also a showcase of tactical brilliance, and this year's edition was no exception. As the riders crossed the finish line, the stories of triumph and heartbreak would be shared, adding to the rich history of this iconic race.
The event's live coverage was exclusively available on Peacock in the United States, allowing fans to witness every moment of the action. With cycling's popularity on the rise, events like Liège-Bastogne-Liège continue to captivate audiences worldwide, showcasing the incredible talent and determination of the athletes involved.
This year's race certainly lived up to its reputation, and as the dust settles, the cycling community reflects on another memorable chapter in the storied history of Liège-Bastogne-Liège.
