Van Der Poel, Tratnik and De Lie, but no Van aert , Pedersen, or Pogacar: This is the preliminary start list for Omloop Het Nieuwsblad…

Van Der Poel, Tratnik and De Lie, but no Van aert , Pedersen, or Pogacar: This is the preliminary start list for Omloop Het Nieuwsblad…

 

 

Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, traditionally held on the first Saturday of March, serves as the opening event of the Flemish cycling season. The 2025 edition, scheduled for March 1, will feature a competitive field, notably without the participation of Wout van Aert, Mads Pedersen, or Tadej Pogačar. Instead, the race will showcase talents such as Mathieu van der Poel, Jan Tratnik, and Arnaud De Lie.

 

Race Overview

 

The 80th edition of Omloop Het Nieuwsblad will commence in Ghent and conclude in Ninove, covering a distance of 197 kilometers. The route is characterized by 11 climbs, many of which are cobbled, and seven flat stretches of pavé. The finale includes the challenging Muur van Geraardsbergen and Bosberg climbs, situated within the final 16 kilometers, leading to a flat run-in to the finish line.

 

Notable Participants

 

The absence of Wout van Aert, Mads Pedersen, and Tadej Pogačar from the start list has opened the door for other riders to assert their dominance. Among the notable participants are:

 

– Mathieu van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck): A versatile rider known for his prowess in both cyclocross and road racing, van der Poel is a formidable contender in the Flemish classics.

 

– Jan Tratnik (Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe): The defending champion of Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, Tratnik’s tactical acumen and climbing abilities make him a strong candidate for a repeat victory.

 

– Arnaud De Lie (Lotto): A rising star in Belgian cycling, De Lie has demonstrated exceptional sprinting capabilities, positioning him as a potential threat in the final kilometers.

 

Team Lineups

 

The race will feature a mix of UCI WorldTeams and ProTeams, each bringing a blend of experience and emerging talent. Notable teams and their lineups include:

 

– Alpecin-Deceuninck: Mathieu van der Poel leads a team known for its aggressive racing style and strong support riders.

 

– Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe: Jan Tratnik heads a squad with a solid mix of climbers and sprinters, aiming to capitalize on the varied terrain.

 

– Lotto: Arnaud De Lie is supported by a team focused on delivering him to the final sprint in optimal condition.

 

– Bahrain Victorious: Matej Mohorič, a versatile rider capable of both climbing and sprinting, will be a key figure for the team.

 

– Cofidis: Dylan Teuns, known for his climbing prowess, will be a strong contender in the hilly sections.

 

– Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale Team: Oliver Naesen brings experience and strength, making him a potential leader for the team.

 

– EF Education – EasyPost: Marijn van den Berg and Harre Sweeny add depth to the team, with potential for breakaways and strong finishes.

 

– Groupama-FDJ: Stefan Küng, a time trial specialist, could be a wildcard in the final stages.

 

– INEOS Grenadiers: A team with a history of strong performances in the classics, though specific riders for this edition are yet to be confirmed.

 

– Intermarché – Wanty: Laurenz Rex adds strength to the team, with potential for breakaways and strong finishes.

 

– Lidl – Trek: Jasper Stuyven, a former winner of Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, brings experience and a strong sprint finish.

 

– Movistar Team: A team with a history of strong performances in the classics, though specific riders for this edition are yet to be confirmed.

 

– Soudal Quick-Step: Yves Lampaert, a former winner of Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, brings experience and a strong sprint finish.

 

– Team Picnic PostNL: John Degenkolb, a former winner of Paris-Roubaix, adds depth to the team.

 

– Team Jayco AlUla:A team with a history of strong performances in the classics, though specific riders for this edition are yet to be confirmed.

 

– UAE Team Emirates: Jhonatan Narváez, a versatile rider capable of both climbing and sprinting, will be a key figure for the team.

 

– Visma | Lease a Bike: Dylan van Baarle, a former winner of Paris-Roubaix, brings experience and a strong sprint finish.

 

– XDS Astana Team: Mike Teunissen, a former winner of the Tour de France stage, adds strength to the team.

 

– Israel – Premier Tech: A team with a history of strong performances in the classics, though specific riders for this edition are yet to be confirmed.

 

– Uno-X Mobility: A team with a history of strong performances in the classics, though specific riders for this edition are yet to be confirmed.

 

– Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team: Tom Pidcock, a versatile rider capable of both climbing and sprinting, will be a key figure for the team.

 

– Team Flanders – Baloise: Dylan Vandenstorme, a rising star in Belgian cycling, adds depth to the team.

 

Race Dynamics

 

The absence of top riders like van Aert, Pedersen, and Pogačar has opened the door for other riders to assert their dominance. The challenging course, featuring multiple climbs and cobbled sections, will test the riders’ endurance and tactical acumen. Teams will need to balance aggressive racing with