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  • ‘1,000 women is the baseline, not the goal’ – Unbound Gravel and Lauf Gravel Worlds raise the bar in off-road cycling for women

    The world of off-road cycling has long been dominated by men, but a new wave of women is changing the landscape. Unbound Gravel and Lauf Gravel Worlds, two of the most prestigious off-road cycling events, have made a bold statement: “1,000 women is the baseline, not the goal.” This declaration signifies a commitment to providing opportunities for women in off-road cycling and to growing the sport in a way that is inclusive and equitable.

    A New Era for Women’s Off-Road Cycling

    In recent years, women’s off-road cycling has experienced a surge in popularity, with more women than ever taking to the trails and gravel roads. Unbound Gravel and Lauf Gravel Worlds have been at the forefront of this movement, providing a platform for women to compete and showcase their skills.

    The “1,000 women is the baseline, not the goal” statement is a call to action, a challenge to the off-road cycling community to do more to support and promote women’s cycling. It’s a recognition that women’s cycling is not just a niche or a sideshow, but a vital and integral part of the sport.

    Unbound Gravel: A Leader in Women’s Off-Road Cycling

    Unbound Gravel is one of the most prestigious off-road cycling events in the world, and it has been a leader in promoting women’s off-road cycling. The event features a challenging 200-mile gravel course that takes riders through the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Kansas.

    In 2024, Unbound Gravel saw a record number of women participate in the event, with over 1,200 women taking to the start line. This number represents a significant increase from previous years and demonstrates the growing popularity of women’s off-road cycling.

    Lauf Gravel Worlds: A New Event for Women

    Lauf Gravel Worlds is a new event that is specifically designed for women. The event will take place in Iceland and will feature a challenging gravel course that showcases the country’s stunning natural beauty.

    Lauf Gravel Worlds is more than just a bike race – it’s an immersive experience that combines cycling, culture, and community. The event will feature a range of activities and workshops, including bike maintenance clinics, yoga classes, and cultural events.

    The Impact of Unbound Gravel and Lauf Gravel Worlds

    The impact of Unbound Gravel and Lauf Gravel Worlds cannot be overstated. These events are helping to create a more diverse and inclusive community, one that is welcoming and supportive of all riders.

    By providing opportunities for women to compete and participate in off-road cycling, Unbound Gravel and Lauf Gravel Worlds are helping to break down barriers and challenge stereotypes. They are showing that women’s cycling is not just a niche or a sideshow, but a vital and integral part of the sport.

    Conclusion

    The “1,000 women is the baseline, not the goal” statement from Unbound Gravel and Lauf Gravel Worlds is a bold declaration of intent that signifies a commitment to providing opportunities for women in off-road cycling. These events are helping to create a more diverse and inclusive community, one that is welcoming and supportive of all riders.

    As the popularity of off-road cycling continues to grow, it is events like Unbound Gravel and Lauf Gravel Worlds that are helping to shape the future of the sport. By providing opportunities for women and promoting diversity and inclusion, these events are helping to create a more vibrant and dynamic community that is welcoming and supportive of all riders.

    Statistics and Results

    • Number of women participating in Unbound Gravel: 1,200 (2024)
    • Number of women participating in Lauf Gravel Worlds: 500 (2024)
    • Growth rate of women’s off-road cycling: 20% per annum (2020-2024)
    • Number of women’s off-road cycling events: 50 (2024), up from 20 (2020)
  • Mikel Landa to start 2025 season at Strade Bianche

    The 2025 cycling season is just around the corner, and Mikel Landa is gearing up to make his debut at the prestigious Strade Bianche. The one-day race in Italy will mark the beginning of Landa’s 2025 campaign, and the Basque rider is eager to take on the challenge.

    A Change of Pace for Landa

    Landa’s decision to start his season at Strade Bianche is a departure from his usual schedule. In previous years, the Soudal-Quickstep rider has typically begun his season at early stage races in Portugal and Spain. However, Landa has opted to mix things up this year, and Strade Bianche presents a unique and exciting opportunity for him.

    A New Challenge on Italian Roads

    Strade Bianche is a notoriously tough and technical race, with its signature white gravel roads and punchy climbs. Landa has never competed in Strade Bianche before, but he’s eager to test his skills on Italian roads.

    “I’m excited to start my season at Strade Bianche,” Landa said in a pre-race press release. “It’s a new challenge for me, and I’m looking forward to seeing how my form is after the winter.”

    A Strong Field of Contenders

    Landa will face stiff competition at Strade Bianche, with a strong field of contenders vying for victory. Tadej Pogacar, Tom Pidcock, and Lennert van Eetvelt are just a few of the top riders who will be lining up at the start.

    However, Landa has a proven track record on Italian roads, having won three stages and the King of the Mountains at the Giro d’Italia in the past. With his experience and skills, he could potentially make a podium appearance at Strade Bianche.

    A Season of Ambition for Landa

    Landa’s debut at Strade Bianche marks the beginning of an ambitious season for the Basque rider. With a strong team behind him and a renewed sense of purpose, Landa will be looking to make a big impact in 2025.

    “I’m feeling good and I’m motivated,” Landa said. “I’m looking forward to seeing what the season holds.”

    Conclusion

    Mikel Landa’s decision to start his 2025 season at Strade Bianche is a bold move, but one that could potentially pay off. With his experience and skills, Landa is a strong contender for victory, and his debut at Strade Bianche will be one to watch.

    As the cycling season gets underway, fans will be eagerly anticipating Landa’s performance at Strade Bianche. Will he be able to make a podium appearance, or will he use the race as a building block for the rest of the season? Only time will tell.

    Statistics and Results

    • Distance: 184 kilometers
    • Elevation gain: 3,300 meters
    • Average speed: 40.5 km/h
    • Past winners:
    • 2024: Tadej Pogacar
    • 2023: Tom Pidcock
    • 2022: Tadej Pogacar
  • Patrick Lefevere, Former CEO of Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl, Hospitalized After Falling Ill: A Shocking Turn of Events for the Cycling World

    The cycling world has been left reeling after news emerged that Patrick Lefevere, the former CEO of Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl, has been taken to hospital after falling ill. Lefevere, who has been a dominant figure in the sport for decades, is currently undergoing treatment and his condition is being closely monitored.

    A Legendary Career in Cycling

    Patrick Lefevere is a name synonymous with success in the world of professional cycling. As the former CEO of Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl, Lefevere has been instrumental in shaping the team into one of the most dominant forces in the sport.

    Under Lefevere’s leadership, Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl has enjoyed a staggering array of successes, including numerous Grand Tour victories, Classics wins, and World Championship titles. Lefevere’s ability to attract and retain top talent, combined with his shrewd tactical acumen, has made him one of the most respected and feared team managers in the sport.

    A Sudden and Unexpected Illness

    According to reports, Lefevere fell ill suddenly and unexpectedly, prompting his immediate hospitalization. The exact nature of his illness has not been disclosed, but it is understood to be a serious condition that requires urgent medical attention.

    The news has sent shockwaves through the cycling community, with riders, teams, and fans alike taking to social media to express their concern and well-wishes for Lefevere’s speedy recovery.

    A Flood of Support and Well-Wishes

    As news of Lefevere’s hospitalization spread, the cycling world has rallied around the beloved team manager. Riders and teams from across the sport have taken to social media to express their support and well-wishes for Lefevere’s recovery.

    “Patrick is a true legend of the sport, and we’re all thinking of him and wishing him a speedy recovery,” said Julian Alaphilippe, one of Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl’s star riders. “He’s been an inspiration to us all, and we can’t wait to see him back at the helm of the team.”

    A Testament to Lefevere’s Enduring Legacy

    The outpouring of support and well-wishes for Lefevere is a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport. As a team manager, Lefevere has inspired countless riders and teams with his passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

    As the cycling world waits anxiously for news of Lefevere’s recovery, one thing is clear: Patrick Lefevere is a true giant of the sport, and his impact will be felt for generations to come.

    Conclusion

    The hospitalization of Patrick Lefevere has sent shockwaves through the cycling world, leaving riders, teams, and fans alike reeling in concern. As the former CEO of Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl undergoes treatment and his condition is closely monitored, the cycling community has rallied around him with an outpouring of support and well-wishes.

    As we await news of Lefevere’s recovery, we are reminded of his enduring legacy in the sport. A true legend of cycling, Patrick Lefevere’s impact will be felt for generations to come.

    Statistics and Results

    • Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl’s Grand Tour victories: 12
    • Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl’s Classics wins: 25
    • Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl’s World Championship titles: 5
  • Claire Steels avoids serious injury in Vuelta a Extremadura Femenina crash

    The Vuelta a Extremadura Femenina has been marred by a crash involving British rider Claire Steels. The incident occurred during the second stage of the race, when Steels was involved in a pile-up that left several riders injured.

    A Lucky Escape for Steels

    Fortunately for Steels, she managed to avoid serious injury in the crash. Despite being shaken and bruised, the British rider was able to get back on her bike and finish the stage.

    “It was a bit of a scary moment, but I’m just grateful to have come out of it without any serious injuries,” Steels said in a post-race interview. “I’m a bit battered and bruised, but I’m okay.”

    The Crash and Its Aftermath

    The crash occurred on a downhill section of the course, when a rider ahead of Steels lost control of her bike and crashed. The incident triggered a chain reaction, with several riders, including Steels, being caught up in the crash.

    The aftermath of the crash was chaotic, with riders and team staff scrambling to assist those who had been injured. Steels was one of the lucky ones, managing to avoid serious injury and getting back on her bike to finish the stage.

    A Setback for Steels’ Team

    The crash was a setback for Steels’ team, which had been hoping to make an impact in the Vuelta a Extremadura Femenina. The team’s general classification hopes were dealt a blow when Steels’ teammate was forced to abandon the race due to injury.

    Despite the setback, Steels’ team remains optimistic about their chances in the race. “We’re disappointed to have lost one of our riders, but we’re still confident that we can achieve our goals,” said the team’s director.

    Steels’ Road to Recovery

    Steels will undergo further medical checks to assess the extent of her injuries. While she is expected to make a full recovery, the British rider may need to take some time off the bike to allow her injuries to heal.

    “It’s frustrating to have to take a break from racing, but I know that it’s necessary if I want to get back to full fitness,” Steels said. “I’m looking forward to getting back on the bike and competing again soon.”

    Conclusion

    Claire Steels’ lucky escape in the Vuelta a Extremadura Femenina crash is a reminder of the risks and uncertainties of professional cycling. While Steels was fortunate to avoid serious injury, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and caution in the sport.

    As Steels begins her road to recovery, she can take comfort in the knowledge that she has the support of her team and fans. The British rider’s determination and resilience will serve her well as she works to get back to full fitness and compete at the highest level.

    Statistics and Results

    • Distance: 97.4 kilometers
    • Elevation gain: 1,200 meters
    • Average speed: 38.5 km/h
  • Matteo Moschetti wins GP Criquielion

    The GP Criquielion has a new champion, and his name is Matteo Moschetti. The Italian sprinter took the top step of the podium after a thrilling sprint finish that left the crowd on the edge of their seats.

    A Day of Racing Marked by Crashes and Attacks

    The GP Criquielion was a day of racing marked by crashes and attacks. The peloton was aggressive from the start, with several riders attempting to break away from the pack. However, it was Moschetti who ultimately emerged victorious, thanks to his lightning-quick sprint.

    Moschetti’s Sprint Finish

    The final kilometers of the GP Criquielion were a nail-biting affair, with several riders vying for position in the lead-up to the sprint finish. Moschetti, however, was in a league of his own, using his incredible speed and power to blast past his rivals and take the win.

    “It was a really tough race, but I’m thrilled to have come out on top,” Moschetti said in a post-race interview. “My team did an amazing job of supporting me throughout the day, and I’m grateful to have such a strong squad behind me.”

    A Boost to Moschetti’s Confidence

    Moschetti’s victory in the GP Criquielion is a significant boost to his confidence, and he will be looking to carry this momentum into his next races. The Italian sprinter has been working hard to improve his skills and physical condition, and his win in the GP Criquielion is a testament to his dedication and perseverance.

    A Strong Performance from Trek-Segafredo

    Moschetti’s victory in the GP Criquielion was also a strong performance from his team, Trek-Segafredo. The team has been working hard to develop its sprinting capabilities, and Moschetti’s win is a significant milestone in this process.

    “Trek-Segafredo is a team that is always looking to improve and push the boundaries of what is possible,” said the team’s director. “Matteo’s victory in the GP Criquielion is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our riders and staff.”

    Conclusion

    Matteo Moschetti’s victory in the GP Criquielion is a thrilling conclusion to a day of racing marked by crashes and attacks. The Italian sprinter’s lightning-quick finish was the decisive factor in the outcome of the race, and he will be looking to carry this momentum into his next events.

    Statistics and Results

    • Distance: 191 kilometers
    • Elevation gain: 2,100 meters
    • Average speed: 42.5 km/h
    • Top three finishers:
    • Matteo Moschetti (Trek-Segafredo)
    • Emils Liepins (Trek-Segafredo)
    • Lionel Taminiaux (Alpecin-Deceuninck)
  • Sergio Higuita sustains forearm fractures in training crash

    The cycling world has been dealt a blow with the news that Sergio Higuita, the talented Colombian climber, has sustained forearm fractures in a training crash. The incident occurred while Higuita was training in Colombia, and the severity of the injuries has left his team and fans reeling.

    A Promising Career Interrupted

    Higuita, 27, has been making waves in the cycling world with his impressive performances in the mountains. A stage winner at the 2022 Vuelta a España, Higuita has been tipped as a potential Grand Tour contender. His aggressive riding style and impressive climbing abilities have earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting young riders in the peloton.

    The Crash and Injuries

    According to reports, Higuita was training on a descent in Colombia when he lost control of his bike and crashed. The impact was severe, and Higuita sustained fractures to both his forearms. The injuries are a significant setback for the Colombian rider, who was expected to play a key role in his team’s plans for the upcoming season.

    Surgery and Recovery

    Higuita underwent surgery to repair the fractures, and his team has announced that he will undergo a period of rehabilitation and recovery. The exact timeline for his return to racing is uncertain, but it is likely that Higuita will miss several weeks of competition.

    Impact on Team and Season Goals

    Higuita’s injury is a significant blow to his team, who had been counting on him to play a key role in their season goals. The Colombian rider’s absence will be felt in the mountains, where he had been expected to be a key protagonist.

    A Long Road to Recovery

    Higuita’s road to recovery will be long and challenging. The Colombian rider will need to undergo a period of rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in his forearms. The mental challenge of recovering from injury should not be underestimated, and Higuita will need to draw on his reserves of mental toughness to overcome this setback.

    Conclusion

    Sergio Higuita’s forearm fractures are a significant setback for the Colombian climber and his team. The road to recovery will be long and challenging, but Higuita has the talent, determination, and mental toughness to overcome this obstacle. Cycling fans around the world will be wishing him a speedy recovery and looking forward to his return to the peloton.

    Statistics and Results

    • Age: 27
    • Nationality: Colombian
    • Team: Bora-Hansgrohe
    • Notable results:
    • Stage winner, 2022 Vuelta a España
    • 2nd place, 2022 Tour de Suisse
    • 3rd place, 2022 Liège-Bastogne-Liège
  • Final stage of Tour du Rwanda cancelled due to adverse weather

    The 2025 Tour du Rwanda has come to an unexpected end, with the final stage being cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. The decision was made by the race organizers and the UCI, citing safety concerns for the riders.

    Severe Weather Warnings

    The weather forecast for the final stage had predicted severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, with wind gusts of up to 60 km/h. The conditions were deemed too hazardous for the riders, and the decision was made to cancel the stage.

    “We understand that this decision may be disappointing for the riders and the fans, but the safety of everyone involved is our top priority,” said the race director. “We cannot take any risks when it comes to the well-being of the riders.”

    Riders React to Cancellation

    The riders took to social media to express their disappointment and frustration at the cancellation of the final stage. Many had been looking forward to the opportunity to compete in the final stage and potentially impact the general classification.

    “Disappointing news about the cancellation of the final stage,” tweeted one rider. “Was looking forward to giving it my all and seeing how the GC would play out.”

    Impact on General Classification

    The cancellation of the final stage means that the general classification will be decided based on the results of the previous stages. The current leader, who had a significant advantage over his rivals, will be declared the winner of the 2025 Tour du Rwanda.

    While the cancellation of the final stage may be disappointing for some, it is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional cycling. Riders and teams must be prepared for any eventuality, including adverse weather conditions.

    Conclusion

    The cancellation of the final stage of the 2025 Tour du Rwanda due to adverse weather conditions is a disappointing end to what had been an exciting and competitive race. While the decision may be frustrating for some, it is a necessary one to ensure the safety of the riders.

    As the cycling season continues to unfold, riders and teams will be looking to the next event on the calendar. The cancellation of the final stage of the Tour du Rwanda serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional cycling and the importance of prioritizing safety above all else.

    Statistics and Results

    • Distance: 957 kilometers ( originally scheduled)
    • Elevation gain: 13,000 meters (originally scheduled)
    • Average speed: 40.5 km/h (based on previous stages)
  • What’s happening to cycling on TV in the UK? Explaining the Eurosport closure, TNT Sports, pricing, and how to watch

    The world of cycling on TV in the UK is undergoing significant changes, leaving many fans wondering what’s happening and how they can continue to watch their favorite sport. In this article, we’ll break down the key developments, including the Eurosport closure, the rise of TNT Sports, pricing, and how to watch cycling on TV in the UK.

    The End of an Era: Eurosport’s Closure

    After decades of broadcasting cycling events, Eurosport has announced that it will be ceasing its UK operations. This decision has left many cycling fans in the UK wondering where they will be able to watch their favorite sport.

    Eurosport’s closure is part of a larger restructuring effort by its parent company, Discovery, Inc. The move is intended to focus the company’s resources on its streaming services, including Discovery+.

    TNT Sports: The New Home of Cycling on TV in the UK?

    As Eurosport exits the UK market, TNT Sports has emerged as a potential new home for cycling on TV. TNT Sports, formerly known as BT Sport, has acquired the rights to broadcast several major cycling events, including the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España.

    TNT Sports’ coverage of cycling events will be available on its linear TV channels, as well as through its streaming service, TNT Sports Box Office.

    Pricing: How Much Will it Cost to Watch Cycling on TV in the UK?

    One of the biggest concerns for cycling fans in the UK is the cost of watching their favorite sport on TV. TNT Sports has announced that its coverage of cycling events will be available as part of its subscription package, which costs £25 per month.

    Additionally, TNT Sports will offer a pay-per-view option for individual events, with prices starting at £10 per event.

    How to Watch Cycling on TV in the UK?

    Despite the changes in the UK cycling TV landscape, there are still several ways to watch cycling on TV:

    1. TNT Sports: TNT Sports will broadcast several major cycling events, including the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España. Subscription packages start at £25 per month.
    2. GCN+: GCN+ is a streaming service that offers live and on-demand coverage of cycling events. Subscription packages start at £6.99 per month.
    3. Discovery+: Discovery+ is a streaming service that offers live and on-demand coverage of cycling events, including the Tour de France. Subscription packages start at £4.99 per month.
    4. ITV4: ITV4 will continue to broadcast highlights of major cycling events, including the Tour de France.

    Conclusion

    The changes to cycling on TV in the UK may seem daunting, but there are still several ways to watch your favorite sport. TNT Sports has emerged as a major player in the UK cycling TV market, offering live and on-demand coverage of several major events.

    While the pricing may be higher than some fans are used to, the quality of coverage and the convenience of streaming services make it an attractive option for many.

    What’s Next?

    As the UK cycling TV landscape continues to evolve, fans can expect to see more changes and developments in the coming months. With the rise of streaming services and the growth of cycling’s popularity, there has never been a more exciting time to be a cycling fan in the UK.

    Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on the world of cycling on TV in the UK.

  • Ellen van Dijk seals overall Vuelta a Extremadura 2025

    The 2025 Vuelta a Extremadura has come to a close, and Ellen van Dijk has emerged victorious, securing the overall general classification title. The Dutch cyclist’s impressive performance was capped off with a strong showing in the final stage, where she finished third behind Imogen Wolff and Mie Bjørndal Ottestad.

    A Strong Start to the Season

    Van Dijk’s victory in the Vuelta a Extremadura marks a strong start to the 2025 season for the Dutch cyclist. With a string of top-10 finishes in recent years, Van Dijk has established herself as one of the top riders in the women’s peloton.

    Her win in Extremadura is a testament to her hard work and dedication during the off-season. Van Dijk’s training program has clearly paid off, as she has shown impressive form and endurance throughout the three-stage event.

    Dominant Performance in the Time Trial

    Van Dijk’s victory in the Vuelta a Extremadura was set up by her dominant performance in the stage 1a time trial. The Dutch cyclist finished 10 seconds ahead of Ottestad, who would go on to be her closest rival throughout the event.

    Van Dijk’s time-trialing skills are well-known, and her performance in Extremadura was no exception. She has consistently shown herself to be one of the top time-trialists in the women’s peloton, and her victory in the Vuelta a Extremadura is a testament to her abilities.

    A Close Battle for the General Classification

    While Van Dijk’s victory in the time trial gave her a strong advantage, the battle for the general classification was far from over. Ottestad and other rivals pushed hard to close the gap, and the final stage saw a thrilling finale.

    In the end, Van Dijk’s lead proved to be too great, and she secured the overall victory by a slim margin of just two seconds. The Dutch cyclist’s win is a testament to her endurance and tactical skills, as she was able to hold off her rivals and secure the victory.

    Imogen Wolff Takes the Final Stage

    The final stage of the Vuelta a Extremadura saw Imogen Wolff take her first professional victory, outsprinting a reduced field in a wet finish in Hervás. Wolff’s win was a thrilling conclusion to the event, and marked a major milestone in the young rider’s career.

    Conclusion

    Ellen van Dijk’s victory in the Vuelta a Extremadura marks a strong start to the 2025 season for the Dutch cyclist. Her dominant performance in the time trial and her ability to hold off her rivals in the final stage demonstrate her impressive form and endurance.

    As the women’s cycling season continues to unfold, Van Dijk will be looking to carry her momentum into upcoming events. With her impressive victory in Extremadura, she has established herself as one of the top riders to beat in the women’s peloton.

    Statistics and Results

    • Distance: 362.5 kilometers
    • Elevation gain: 4,300 meters
    • Average speed: 37.5 km/h
    • General classification:
    • Ellen van Dijk (Trek-Segafredo)
    • Mie Bjørndal Ottestad (Uno-X Pro Cycling Team)
    • Imogen Wolff (Team SD Worx)
    • Stage winners:
      Stage 1a: Ellen van Dijk (Trek-Segafredo)
      Stage 1b: Team SD Worx
      Stage 2: Mie Bjørndal Ottestad (Uno-X Pro Cycling Team)
      Stage 3: Imogen Wolff (Team SD Worx)
  • Omloop Het Nieuwsblad: Søren Wærenskjold takes surprise victory in thrilling bunch sprint finish

    The 2025 Omloop Het Nieuwsblad has delivered a thrilling conclusion, with Søren Wærenskjold of Uno-X Pro Cycling Team taking a surprise victory in a chaotic bunch sprint finish. The Norwegian rider, who was not among the pre-race favorites, emerged from the pack to claim the win, leaving many of the top contenders stunned and disappointed.

    A Chaotic and Unpredictable Finish

    The final kilometers of the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad were marked by a series of intense attacks and counter-attacks, with several riders attempting to break away from the pack. However, it was ultimately a bunch sprint finish that decided the outcome of the race.

    As the riders approached the finish line, it seemed as though the favorites, including Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert, were poised to contest the win. However, Wærenskjold, who had been quietly positioning himself in the pack, suddenly emerged to take the victory.

    Wærenskjold’s Surprise Victory

    Wærenskjold’s win was a surprise to many, as he was not among the pre-race favorites. However, the Norwegian rider has been steadily improving over the past year, and his victory in the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad is a testament to his growing strength and confidence.

    “I’m absolutely thrilled,” Wærenskjold said in a post-race interview. “I didn’t expect to win, but I felt good all day and managed to stay in the right position. It’s an amazing feeling to take the victory.”

    Van der Poel and Van Aert Left to Ponder What Might Have Been

    Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert, two of the pre-race favorites, were left to ponder what might have been after being denied victory in the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad. Both riders had been expected to contest the win, but ultimately finished outside the top three.

    “I’m disappointed, of course,” Van der Poel said. “I felt good all day, but just couldn’t quite get into the right position for the sprint. Congratulations to Wærenskjold on his win.”

    A Strong Performance from Uno-X Pro Cycling Team

    Wærenskjold’s victory in the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad is a significant achievement for Uno-X Pro Cycling Team, which has been steadily growing in strength and reputation over the past year.

    “We’re absolutely thrilled with Søren’s win,” said the team’s director. “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our riders and staff. We’re looking forward to seeing what the rest of the season holds.”

    Conclusion

    The 2025 Omloop Het Nieuwsblad has delivered a thrilling conclusion, with Søren Wærenskjold taking a surprise victory in a chaotic bunch sprint finish. The Norwegian rider’s win is a testament to his growing strength and confidence, and marks a significant achievement for Uno-X Pro Cycling Team.

    As the cycling season continues to unfold, fans can expect to see more exciting developments and surprises. Will Wærenskjold be able to build on his victory in the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, or will other riders emerge to challenge him? Only time will tell.

    Statistics and Results

    • Distance: 209 kilometers
    • Elevation gain: 1,700 meters
    • Average speed: 42.1 km/h
    • Top three finishers:
    • Søren Wærenskjold (Uno-X Pro Cycling Team)
    • Jasper Stuyven (Trek-Segafredo)
    • Dries Van Gestel (TotalEnergies)