Leuven, Belgium – In a surprising turn of events, reigning Omloop Het Nieuwsblad champion Lotte Claes will indeed compete in the 2026 edition of the race, reversing an earlier decision by her team, Roodhooft, not to include her in the lineup. The news, initially reported by several Belgian outlets, comes after a period of uncertainty surrounding the rider’s participation in the opening classic of the Belgian cycling season.
The Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, traditionally the first major race on the Belgian calendar, is set to take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The race serves as a crucial springboard into the spring classics, and Claes’s victory last year marked a significant moment in her career. The competition will see both men and women vying for the top spot, with Søren Wærenskjold and Lotte Claes as the previous year’s champions, though Claes’s initial exclusion cast doubt on her ability to defend her title.
The initial announcement of Claes’s exclusion sparked considerable discussion within the cycling community. While the team’s reasoning wasn’t immediately clear, it appeared to be a strategic decision. However, the team has since reversed course, and Claes is now confirmed to be on the start list. The situation highlights the often-complex dynamics within professional cycling teams and the sometimes-fluid nature of race selections.
Claes’s return to the race is particularly noteworthy given her dominant performance in the 2025 edition. Her victory last year was considered a breakthrough moment, establishing her as a force to be reckoned with in the women’s peloton. The 2026 race will be a test of her ability to replicate that success, especially after the initial setback of being left off the team roster.
The field for the 2026 Omloop Het Nieuwsblad is shaping up to be highly competitive. Among the notable contenders are Jasper Philipsen and Mathieu van der Poel of Alpecin – Premier Tech, Matej Mohorič of Bahrain Victorious, and Kasper Asgreen of EF Education – EasyPost. The presence of these top riders underscores the significance of the race and the level of competition expected.
Uno-X Mobility will also be a team to watch, with Søren Wærenskjold leading their lineup. The team’s roster includes Jonas Abrahamsen, Carl-Frederik Bévort, Sven Erik Bystrøm, Markus Hoelgaard, Erik Nordsaeter Resell, and Rasmus Tiller. Decathlon CMA CGM Team will field Tobias Lund Andresen, Stefan Bissegger, Oscar Chamberlain, Sander De Pestel, Stan Dewulf, and Oliver Naesen.
The race route is known for its challenging terrain, including cobblestone sections and steep climbs, which often play a decisive role in determining the outcome. Riders will need to be in peak physical condition and possess strong technical skills to navigate the demanding course. The course traditionally favors riders with a strong endurance base and the ability to handle adverse weather conditions, which are common in Belgium during February.
The Omloop Het Nieuwsblad is not only a test of physical prowess but also a tactical battle. Teams will need to employ smart strategies to position their riders for success, and the ability to anticipate and respond to attacks will be crucial. The race often features aggressive riding and unpredictable moments, making it a thrilling spectacle for both participants and spectators.
While the focus is often on the men’s race, the women’s edition of the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad is gaining increasing prominence. The race provides a platform for female cyclists to showcase their talent and compete at the highest level. Claes’s victory last year helped to raise the profile of the women’s race and inspire a new generation of cyclists.
The confirmation of Claes’s participation adds another layer of intrigue to the 2026 Omloop Het Nieuwsblad. Her ability to overcome the initial disappointment of being excluded from the team and return to defend her title will be a compelling storyline to follow. The race promises to be a captivating event, with a strong field of contenders and a challenging course that will test the limits of even the most seasoned cyclists.
Looking ahead, the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad serves as a crucial stepping stone towards the other major spring classics, such as the Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne, the E3 Classic, and the Tour of Flanders. The performance of riders in the Omloop can often provide valuable insights into their form and potential for success in these subsequent races.
The 2026 edition of the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad is scheduled to begin on February 28th. Cycling fans can follow live updates and results through official race channels and major sports news outlets. The race is expected to draw a large crowd of spectators, both at the start and along the course, eager to witness the excitement and drama of this iconic Belgian cycling event.
The full participant list, as of February 25, 2026, is available on WielerFlits, and will be updated as any changes occur.
The next major checkpoint for many of these riders will be the Strade Bianche, scheduled for March 7, 2026, in Italy. This race, known for its challenging gravel roads, will provide another opportunity for riders to test their form and prepare for the upcoming classics season.
What are your predictions for the 2026 Omloop Het Nieuwsblad? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
