Harelbeke, Belgium – Mathieu van der Poel of Alpecin-Premier Tech secured a remarkable victory at the E3 Saxo Classic on Friday, claiming his third consecutive win in the prestigious Belgian race. However, this triumph was far from assured, as the Dutch rider found himself pushed to the absolute limit, nearly caught in the final kilometer by a fast-closing chase group. The E3 Saxo Classic, a key precursor to the Tour of Flanders, once again delivered a thrilling spectacle for cycling fans.
Van der Poel launched a daring solo attack with 45 kilometers remaining, initially appearing to be on a comfortable trajectory towards victory. He had extended his lead significantly after following a move on the Taaienberg, but a relentless pursuit from a quartet of riders – Per Strand Hagenes (Visma-Lease a Bike), Florian Vermeersch (UAE Team Emirates-XRG), Stan Dewulf (Decathlon CMA CGM), and Jonas Abrahamsen (Uno-X Mobility) – threatened to spoil his bid for a third straight title.
The drama intensified in the closing stages as the chasers dramatically reduced the gap. “At 5 kilometers from the finish, I really thought it was over for me,” Van der Poel conceded after the race, visibly exhausted. The defining moment came with just over one kilometer to head, when Vermeersch nearly caught Van der Poel. However, a crucial hesitation – Vermeersch looking for support from his companions that never materialized – allowed Van der Poel to cling to a narrow lead.
“Especially with a bit more than one k to go, the legs were just not really turning well anymore,” Van der Poel explained. He dug deep, relying on sheer willpower and a tactical surge to hold off the challengers. Per Strand Hagenes ultimately outsprinted Vermeersch for second place, leaving the Belgian to settle for third. Stan Dewulf finished fourth, followed by Jonas Abrahamsen.
A Long Day Out Front
Van der Poel’s victory was built on a punishing 68-kilometer solo effort. He initially joined a breakaway group before distancing himself after the Taaienberg, embarking on a long and arduous ride to the finish. The challenging course, combined with a headwind and long, exposed stretches of road, tested his endurance to the limit. “When I attacked, it was with the intention of thinning out the group, but I ended up alone,” he said. “I had no choice but to maintain pushing, even knowing how difficult it would be.”
The win marks Van der Poel’s 60th professional victory, a testament to his consistent excellence across various cycling disciplines, including his eight cyclo-cross world championships. He arrived at the E3 Saxo Classic with a hand bandaged following a crash in Milan-San Remo, where he was overtaken by Tadej Pogačar in the final kilometers. This victory serves as a significant confidence boost as he prepares for the upcoming Tour of Flanders.
The E3 Saxo Classic is renowned for its demanding terrain, featuring a series of short, steep climbs (hellingen) that favor explosive riders. The Paterberg, a particularly brutal climb, played a pivotal role in Van der Poel’s attack, allowing him to establish a decisive advantage. The race’s course is designed to simulate the challenges of the Tour of Flanders, making it an ideal proving ground for contenders.
A Near Miss for the Chasers
The near-catch by Vermeersch and the subsequent hesitation within the chase group proved to be decisive. The quartet had worked effectively to close the gap, but a lack of coordination in the final moments cost them the victory. Hagenes’ strong sprint for second place demonstrated the strength of the group, but they were unable to capitalize on Van der Poel’s late fatigue.
Van der Poel acknowledged the difficulty of the race, stating, “This victory is one of the ones that hurt the most.” The combination of a long solo effort, challenging conditions, and a determined chase group pushed him to his physical and mental limits. Despite the pain, he managed to secure another prestigious win, solidifying his position as one of the sport’s dominant forces.
Looking ahead, the cycling world eagerly anticipates the showdown between Van der Poel and Tadej Pogačar at the Tour of Flanders on April 5th. The two riders have already demonstrated their exceptional form this season, and their rivalry promises to be a highlight of the spring classics. Before Flanders, Van der Poel will compete in Gand-Wevelgem (now known as In Flanders Fields) on Sunday, where he will face another formidable opponent in Wout Van Aert, who did not participate in the E3 Saxo Classic.
The E3 Saxo Classic serves as a crucial indicator of form heading into the Tour of Flanders, often referred to as the “monument” of cycling. Van der Poel’s victory confirms his readiness for the challenges that lie ahead, but Pogačar and Van Aert will undoubtedly present formidable opposition. The battle for supremacy in the cobbled classics is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.
Next up for Mathieu van der Poel is Gand-Wevelgem on Sunday, March 30th, where he will continue his preparation for the Tour of Flanders. Fans can follow live updates and results on official cycling news websites and through the race organizer’s channels.
