The excitement is building as the 42nd edition of the Tro-Bro Léon is set to take place this Sunday, May 11, 2025. Known as the "Paris-Roubaix of Brittany," this unique cycling race will cover a challenging distance of 203.5 kilometers around Lannilis, featuring the infamous ribinou—off-road sections that are a hallmark of the Breton countryside.
This year's race is particularly noteworthy as it marks the 12th stage of the Coupe de France de cyclisme. Riders will tackle a total of 34.6 kilometers across 29 sectors of ribinou, which are dirt paths and cobbled roads that add an extra layer of difficulty and excitement to the event. The race is expected to attract a large audience, with live broadcasts available on France TV Bretagne and Eurosport MAX.
The action begins at 11:50 AM from Le Carpont Plouguin, with the final circuit measuring 12.5 kilometers and featuring the ribin of Château de Kérouartz, which is situated just 8 kilometers from the finish line. The anticipated arrival time is around 5:00 PM, promising a thrilling conclusion to the day’s events.
As the participants gear up for the race, a strong field is expected, including eight WorldTour teams among the 22 total teams that will start the race. Notable names in the lineup include Biniam Girmay from Intermarché-Wanty, Alex Aranburu of Cofidis, and Kévin Vauquelin representing Arkéa-B&B Hotels, among others. Each of these riders has the potential to make a significant impact on the race, and fans are eager to see who will emerge victorious.
In the previous edition, Arnaud De Lie took home the title, but he will not be present to defend his victory this year, opening the door for a new champion to be crowned. The competition is fierce, and many eyes will be on riders like Clément Venturini, Valentin Madouas, and Matej Mohoric, who are all expected to contend for the top spots.
As the race day approaches, the atmosphere in Brittany is electric. Organizers are busy preparing for the influx of spectators and participants, with 2,000 cyclists already signed up for the events leading up to the main race. Jean-Paul Mellouët, one of the key figures in organizing the Tro-Bro Léon, noted the growing popularity of the event, stating, "The Tro Bro has become a big machine, and it’s exciting to see so many people interested in this unique cycling experience."
With the race featuring a mix of challenging terrain and scenic views, it promises to be not just a test of endurance and skill, but also a celebration of the rich cycling culture in Brittany. The ribinou add a distinctive flair to the race, making it a favorite among both riders and fans alike.
As the countdown to the Tro-Bro Léon continues, anticipation is mounting. Fans are encouraged to tune in to the live broadcasts starting from 2:00 PM on Eurosport MAX and 3:05 PM on France 3 Bretagne. With such a competitive field and the unique challenges of the Breton landscape, this year’s race is sure to deliver excitement and drama from start to finish.
The Tro-Bro Léon is more than just a race; it’s a testament to the spirit of cycling and the beauty of the Breton countryside. As riders prepare to battle it out on the roads and ribinou of Brittany, one thing is for sure: this is an event that no cycling enthusiast will want to miss.
