{"id":1867051,"date":"2026-04-05T10:38:33","date_gmt":"2026-04-05T07:38:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1867051"},"modified":"2026-04-05T10:38:33","modified_gmt":"2026-04-05T07:38:33","slug":"as-it-happened-the-race-is-made-with-the-oude-kwaremont-producing-the-winner-of-the-tour-of-flanders-women","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1867051","title":{"rendered":"As it happened: The race is made with the Oude Kwaremont producing the winner of the Tour of Flanders Women"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-1024-80.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nlive-article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero hero-live news-article widget-hero widget-hero-fter-review\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\" class=\"news-article\">\n<div class=\"header-container\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nWomen&#8217;s Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTour of Flanders Women\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<header>\n<div class=\"header-sub-container\">\n<h1 class=\"review-title-long live-report\">As it happened: The race is made with the Oude Kwaremont producing the winner of the Tour of Flanders Women<\/h1>\n<h2>A solo move after 164km packed full of cobbles and climbs on the menu in Belgium&#8217;s biggest day.<br \/>\n<\/h2>\n<div class=\"byline\">\nLive-reports<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nOwen Rogers <\/span><span><br \/>\nlast updated<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T17:15:26Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n5 April 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<nav class=\"socialite-widget box less-space \" data-contexturl=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/live\/tour-of-flanders-women-live-can-lotte-kopecky-extend-her-winning-record-or-will-someone-else-take-belgiums-most-iconic-race\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"socialite\">\n<ul class=\"socialite-widget-ul\">\n<li class=\"socialite-widget-item social-facebook\">\n<li class=\"socialite-widget-item social-twitter\">\n<li class=\"socialite-widget-item social-pinterest\">\n<li class=\"socialite-widget-item social-email\"><\/ul>\n<p><span class=\"text-[color:--comment-count-text-color,inherit]\"><span>0<\/span><span class=\"visible hidden sm:inline-block\">Comments<\/span><\/span><span class=\"text-[color:--comment-count-text-color,inherit] hidden visible sm:inline-block\">Join the conversation<\/span><\/nav>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<figure>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-1024-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><figcaption class=\"mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Demi Vollering (FDJ United-SUEZ) attacks to win the 2025 Tour of Flanders Women<\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: \u00a9 Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo\" class=\"contents\" data-only-inline=\"1\">\n<div class=\"visible flex flex-row flex-nowrap sticky max-lg:-ml-5 top-[60px] sm:top-0 z-[9994] w-screen lg:w-full h-[50px] bg-white p-0 mb-5 border-neutral-200 border border-solid\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Variants:Inline\" data-analytics-id=\"sticky-nav\" id=\"sticky-nav--inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"sticky-nav\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-row w-full h-full overflow-x-scroll overflow-y-hidden tracking-normal overscroll-x-contain\" id=\"sticky-nav__scroll-container\"><span class=\"pl-4 my-auto text-base font-semibold font-article-heading lg:pl-3 lg:text-sm whitespace-nowrap uppercase\">Jump to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-row w-auto border-y-0\">\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\nborder-b-[3px] border-b-[var(--jumpto-underline-color)] border-solid font-semibold \" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Results<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>164.1km to go!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>154km left to race<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>20km raced!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>30km raced<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Off the first cobbles<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>125km to go<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>110km left to race<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>100km to go!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>90km to go<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>80km to race<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>70km to go<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>60km remaining<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>50km to go<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>40km<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>30km to go<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>20km &#8211; Towards the Kawremont<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Attack!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Paterberg<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>10km to go<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>5km to go<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Vollering wins!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"pinned-content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-pinned-content widget-contentparsed-pinned-content widget-pinned news-article widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-default widget-content-parsed-live-feed \">\n<div class=\" article-body \">\n<div class>\n<p id=\"elk-ea84c86d-9b21-4bab-b494-c4ed2cca2edc\"><strong>Tour of Flanders Women 2026 &#8211; Preview<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tour of Flanders Women 2026 &#8211; Route<\/strong><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ea84c86d-9b21-4bab-b494-c4ed2cca2edc-2\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>Tour of Flanders 2026 &#8211; Contenders<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>How to watch the Tour of Flanders 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-54859928-af13-4e27-be53-070dc50c7cb1\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FdWnPD3cosoHfqZn4asWDV-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FdWnPD3cosoHfqZn4asWDV-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FdWnPD3cosoHfqZn4asWDV-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FdWnPD3cosoHfqZn4asWDV-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FdWnPD3cosoHfqZn4asWDV-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FdWnPD3cosoHfqZn4asWDV-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Profile of Tour of Flanders Women 2026 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Flanders Classics)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-results\"><span>Results<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-ffba19d0-449c-4e39-b09c-31c998a8e768\"><strong>Tour of Flanders Women full results &amp; report: Demi Vollering sails to victory with solo attack on Oude Kwaremont.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-6qUGayAtqcXepW99HborMV-lt2bnMYBzqWZr84REXhs1081bVrf760z\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-6qUGayAtqcXepW99HborMV-lt2bnMYBzqWZr84REXhs1081bVrf760z slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<thead class=\"table__head\">\n<tr class=\"table__head__row\">\n<th class=\"table__head__heading table__head__heading--left\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Pos<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<th class=\"table__head__heading table__head__heading--left\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Rider (Country) Team<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<th class=\"table__head__heading table__head__heading--left\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Time<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Demi Vollering (Ned) FDJ United-Suez<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>4:16:37<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>2<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot (Fra) Visma-Lease a Bike<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0:00:42<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>3<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Puck Pieterse (Ned) Fenix-Premier Tech<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 2 &#8211; Cell 2 <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>4<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Lotte Kopecky (Bel) SD Worx-Protime<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0:01:04<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>5<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Zoe Backstedt (GBr) Canyon-Sram zondacrypto<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 4 &#8211; Cell 2 <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>6<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Karlijn Swinkels (Ned) UAE Team ADQ<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 5 &#8211; Cell 2 <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Silvia Persico (Ita) UAE Team ADQ<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0:01:07<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>8<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Elisa Longo Borghini (Ita) UAE Team ADQ<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 7 &#8211; Cell 2 <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>9<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Mischa Bredewold (Ned) SD Worx-Protime<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0:01:58<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Franziska Koch (Ger) FDJ United-Suez<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 9 &#8211; Cell 2 <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"live-feed-multipage\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-live-feed-multipage widget-contentparsed-live-feed-multipage news-article widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-default multipage widget-content-parsed-live-feed \">\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\" article-body \">\n<div class=\"button wcp-live-feed-reload\">Refresh <\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T17:15:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T17:15:26.261Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ee3c1e84-16fa-4297-b585-a10a5615475d\"><strong>Enjoying our live race coverage? Subscribe to Cyclingnews for an all-access pass to our unrivalled reporting of WorldTour racing, bike tech and exclusive in-depth features. Plus, access to the Cyclingnews app to follow the action on-the-go! <\/strong><u><strong>Find out more.<\/strong><\/u><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T17:13:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T17:13:38.236Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-67f96918-e4ec-4fa4-a9ac-15e7f399ac31\">Thanks for joining us for today&#8217;s live coverage of the Tour of Flanders Women. Apart from the crashes, it was another fabulous race, with FDJ and Vollering producing an almost flawless performance. <br \/>Backed by the ambitious French team, Vollering has proved herself as the women to be beat in a multitude of scenarios and we can expect more from her as the spring continues. <br \/>See you next week.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-bdadedd6-dff2-4ee0-9f89-cb13aec9163b\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Demi Vollering (FDJ United-SUEZ) after winning the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T17:05:43+00:00\">2026-04-05T17:05:43.315Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4cf2051b-0e13-40d8-bb64-59c56d0c42ed\">Defending champion Lotte Kopecky was going for a record no rider, male or female has achieved &#8211; a fourth win at Flanders &#8211; and that evaded her. <br \/>&#8220;It think we managed well until Oude Kwaremont,&#8221; she said afterwards. &#8220;Then the I had no answer to these attacks and then [I was] hoping I could come back for a place too, but unfortunately we come any closer to Puck and Pauline so it was a sprint for place four.&#8221;<br \/>Her SD Worx-Protime squad were always in the right place, but never seemed to grab the race by the scruff of the neck. They too lost a rider to the horrific crash before the Koppenberg and reportedly lost Wiebes after the climb, so they may be satisfied, if not pleased, with fourth place. But this, combined with their no-show at Dwars Door Vlaanderen, where Kopecky was best placed in 12th, will surely be a concern.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-538c3aca-c3bb-4b73-8f85-d530b28eb729\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lotte Kopecky during the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T16:52:48+00:00\">2026-04-05T16:52:48.226Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a947e971-4cde-464a-add2-70cf67a8af06\">Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot will be upset with another second place, even if her Visma-Lease a Bike team rode well. Another team affected by crashes, they had their two protected riders in the right place at the right time, they just weren&#8217;t able to live with Vollering. <br \/>Finishing 11th, Lieke Nooijen is the real deal and is sure to be closer to the podium in future editions of the race.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-2482626e-a9ae-4bcd-9851-ff384864406c\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot (Visma-Lease a Bike) finishes second at the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T16:35:12+00:00\">2026-04-05T16:35:12.741Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-03f69363-02e0-459c-bfe0-034611e8f305\">UAE Team ADQ also put a great shift in, despite their reward being nothing more than Karlijn Swinkels&#8217; sixth place. <br \/>Longo Borghini worked especially hard, but was unable to bring the group back. To be fair, they lost Brodie Chapman to a crash before the action really got going, then Megan Jastrab immediately before Koppenberg, but after last week&#8217;s <strong>In Flanders Fields<\/strong>, this is becoming a habit they will be desperate to shake.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-44303a61-8edf-4f9d-bfd5-7951f3d63a6a\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Silvia Persico and Elisa Longo Borghini (UAE Team ADQ) after the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T16:16:48+00:00\">2026-04-05T16:16:48.329Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e5b8ed21-e5a0-407c-a8d0-c70116804d3a\">FDJ United-SUEZ were imperious in their support of Vollering, answering her prayers and helping her to a first win at Flanders.<br \/>If any plan ever survived contact with the cobbles it was theirs, with riders seeming to have clearly set roles. Koch and Chabbey would lead onto the climbs and Gery would take responsibility in between. Vollering was unafraid to take responsibility when need be, her win was one born of excellent planning and perfect execution.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-781f2d97-58f3-4123-950a-ccda7c65836f\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T16:09:57+00:00\">2026-04-05T16:09:57.596Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fdba9bcb-2465-4233-81ad-4c25dde12493\">&#8220;Crazy, I lost my words a bit,&#8221; said an emotional Vollering. &#8220;It was super hard, I just felt I need to go as fast as possible and then the suffering is finally over because it was painful.<br \/>&#8220;I really tried to find some calmness in the suffering, you know I really tried to stay super focused and then in the end I&#8217;m doing it. But I also had to because the team did an amazing job again.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:52:57+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:52:57.066Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fc1991a9-0a4c-4168-99ba-cd8711081feb\">Vollering wins, with Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot in second place and Pieterse in third.<br \/>The secind coonsecutive year the French woman has been runner up.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:51:35+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:51:35.622Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9a4ccbf4-8ee3-4a88-88b7-40fbca77c8d3\">Vollering wins! The victory made on the Oude Kwaremont<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-vollering-wins\"><span>Vollering wins!<\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-e0926443-1bfc-44a4-9ac4-cabdfbfcd084\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:49:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:49:38.836Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-851a12fb-0fc2-4fd3-b0e5-24a1d74ae873\">Nothing is really changing behind Vollering and she&#8217;ll take 50 seconds into the the final 2km, while Longo Borghini&#8217;s chase group is 19 seconds further back.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:47:56+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:47:56.660Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3783f710-aafd-4b80-a217-6521781c6512\">Vollering&#8217;s lead is now out to 50 seconds, everyone is riding strongly, but Vollering is strongest. Surely all she needs to do is stay on her bike to take the win?<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-5km-to-go\"><span>5km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:45:36+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:45:36.234Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5312a099-aea6-44ef-afd8-b28493f35272\">The wind is a cross tailwind, still approaching 30km\/h, which minimises the effect of drafting in a group, this will help Vollering, but also Pieterse and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot, who have 15 seconds on the chasing group. Longo Borghini is STILL leading that group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:42:15+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:42:15.401Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0516fcff-eb9e-4080-b44f-ffc6f20fab84\">While Vollering seems comfortable at the front, her pedal stroke strong and smooth, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot and Pieterse look to be struggling and the chasing group is clawing them back. Once in the tailwind section they may be able to stay away though.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:40:03+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:40:03.016Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d92f460c-84ab-4033-b469-ac1ae5036c7f\">Vollering is back into Berchem leading Pieterse and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot by 37 seconds.<br \/>Vollering will cross the Schelde river here, then right right, east, and ride with a tailwind back to Oudenaarde.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-10km-to-go\"><span>10km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:37:44+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:37:44.505Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e048fb96-ed9f-46a5-a4d9-fb92c3e182f8\">Team work and repeated attacks seem to have made the day for Vollering.<br \/>Off the Paterberg she leads Pieterse and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot by 27 seconds, while a lerger chasing group is a few seconds back.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-71c107a8-4fa8-4600-9993-ad40ee9d148d\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:33:42+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:33:42.159Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6b573936-999a-4746-ab4c-83c305ac1372\">The final climb, it&#8217;s cobbled, short but hideously steep. Vollering leads by 24 seconds as she hits the cobbles.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-paterberg\"><span>Paterberg<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:32:25+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:32:25.686Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fa7d7035-b842-4e07-958a-5d0e5feb2f9b\">On the tarmac st the top of the Oude Kwaremont Vollering leads Pieterse and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot by 20 seconds. 10 seconds further back Longo Borghini leads the chase with Swinkels, Persico Kopecky and Zoe Backstedt (Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto) is also there, the Brit coming into her own.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:28:50+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:28:50.291Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6980df07-c3ef-4816-aab2-9eb8e3277af5\">Now Vollering is alone at the front, the chasers are alone with their efforts, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot, Pieterse then Kopecky. We&#8217;re through Kwaremont village and almost off the cobbles.<br \/>It doesn&#8217;t seem as though Kopecky will defend her title.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:26:52+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:26:52.279Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-50dc10cc-a3dd-45a2-ad3b-9a8b55316c3f\">On the cobbles Vollering goes very hard, only Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot is anywhere near, this is the decisive move, surely?<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-attack\"><span>Attack!<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:25:49+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:25:49.851Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3d481c87-09a7-4fc8-93fe-22cd5f3b1e16\">As the road begins to slope gently upwards ahead of the steep cobbled sections, Koch comes back to lead out Vollering. Pieterse is watching her like a hawk!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:24:19+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:24:19.798Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fc5378f5-7637-4738-a439-2a005c00cc3e\">In Berchem riders take a gel and a drink. Oude Kwaremont is hard, 1500m average 4% but with some brutal ramps.<br \/>Lieke Nooijen is leading for her Visma-Lease a Bike team mate, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-20km-towards-the-kawremont\"><span>20km &#8211; Towards the Kawremont <\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:21:42+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:21:42.160Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c6bea697-432a-418b-8210-86b4017b54b1\">We&#8217;re descending the Nieuwe Kwaremont on tarmac down the Berchem now. Hereto race will turn right and head towards the cobbled Oude Kwaremont, our penultimate climb.<br \/>Mischa Bredewold (SD Worx) attacked, but has been caught.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:19:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:19:38.132Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1e0492b4-a33c-4bf5-8bf4-796996a4e9af\">UAE Team ADQ have missed this group and are working hard to chase it down, Longo Borghini, Karlijn Swinkels and Silvia Persico have dragged it back on the Ronde van Vlaanderen Straat. <br \/>Othr are with them so this changes the complexion of the race &#8211; Again!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:16:07+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:16:07.180Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6f0bdecf-e2c6-4a9f-b81c-1b68b3d94f53\">There&#8217;s little in the way of cooperation in the leading group. Only Vollering and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot have taken a turn. <br \/>As the chasers get on Vollering attacks, taking Pieterse with her, though Kopecky drags it back and the same five women lead, racing past the old windmill at the top of the Hotond.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:12:04+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:12:04.069Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a85c8a88-984f-42d6-90bf-66f325c6fb12\">Close the end of the cobbles Koch takes over, leading a small group away. <br \/>Vollering, Kopecky, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot, Puck Pieterse (Fenix-Premer Tech) lead the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:10:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:10:26.855Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f7e238ef-1b3f-4db0-bdfd-64344c0ee06a\">We&#8217;re in Ronse now, the Oude Kruisberg\/Hotond climbs out of the town, the road starting on typical Belgian concrete surface before turning to cobbles. Chabbey is on the front with a huge effort again.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:09:02+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:09:02.504Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-7f289c79-e486-4096-a0de-d113d0410a72\">FDJ United-SUEZ have bossed the race wince before the Koppenberg. C\u00e9lia Gery win particular has driven the race hard. She&#8217;s still on the front after this effort on the Taaienberg.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-3350fe37-5927-4bf8-88c0-2ac0863c0b64\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">C\u00e9lia Gery (FDJ United-SUEZ) leads the race on the Taaienberg during the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:05:30+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:05:30.043Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-39d3a8a8-0ee3-42c3-9794-6d7a07b8ee80\">There&#8217;ll be no rest but there is time for riders to catch their breath before the next climb.<br \/>The Oude Kruisberg\/Hotond comes with 27km to go and is an odd one. The Kruisberg is cobbled and narrow, while the Hotond is just a tarmacced and wide continuation, dragging on and on.<br \/>In total it&#8217;s 2.7km avarage of 4.1%, but harder than it sounds.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-30km-to-go\"><span>30km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:01:32+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:01:32.751Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-39b911be-c634-43e7-9d9a-bf84193082a4\">I spoke too soon, Bredewold is back to help Kopecky, but FDJ are keeping the pace incredibly high.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:58:52+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:58:52.824Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d297c9db-6006-45c8-8d5a-bbed0584891a\">Chabbey leads her FDJ team onto the cobbles, while riders are dropping. Pfeiffer Georgi (Pinic-PostNL) and Mischa Bredewold (SD Worx) are the first two to go, while Millie Couzens (Fenix-Premier Tech) is also distanced.<br \/>As defending champion, Kopecky is now isloated in the leading group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:55:41+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:55:41.659Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ffef1782-d275-41c5-a7c9-c5f20de111a0\">Taaienberg is the next climb. Another cobbled berg it&#8217;s a tough climb, though a tailwind will make it slightly easier. Expect more attacks here, FDJ have number is this group and will look to thin it down.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:51:59+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:51:59.650Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-396ce84b-b7ba-4e9f-a846-a09a6afcaead\">FDJ are in control on the cobbles of the Maria Borrestraat, but the leading group comprises around 20 women, with plenty of teams represented.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-40km\"><span>40km<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:47:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:47:53.710Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-707cde09-14f3-435a-82ce-b1c3797630cd\">Vollering and Koch lead over the top, but she has a large group with her. They include Elisa Longo Borghini andZoe Backstedt (UAE) Letizia Paternoster (Liv-Alula-JAyco), Kopecky, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot (Visma-Lease a Bike) and others.<br \/>They being chased but will the pursuers get back on before the Taaienberg?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:43:44+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:43:44.198Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5a8a2669-ac22-46fb-a23d-6f74fd813aa6\">On the climb and Franziska Koch (FDJ Untied SUEZ) is doing her thing and leading for Vollering. You can lose so much time here you&#8217;ll never see the front of the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:41:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:41:53.060Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-beb6eaab-f5c8-472f-8cae-f2942e19eb79\">There&#8217;s a real fight to be close to the front four this climb, with it so hard and set to cause riders so many problems, it&#8217;s vital for the favourites to be at the front.<br \/>Kolesava leads by 35 seconds.<br \/>There&#8217;s been a sickening crash in the lead in, with Reusser affected, among others.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:38:04+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:38:04.201Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-deeef178-dd78-4727-85ec-48912302dfc4\">Don&#8217;t expect Kolesava to survive the Koppenberg, it&#8217;s brutal and invites attacks.<br \/>The cobbles alone are some of the toughest of the day and while it&#8217;s only 600m, it averages 11.6%, though it&#8217;s steepest ramp is 22%. It&#8217;s very narrow too.<br \/>Let&#8217;s hope it&#8217;s dry now as riders will be walking. If you stop you&#8217;ll really struggle to remount.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:35:34+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:35:34.219Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-25158046-0b6f-4b69-8333-8d905e38fac1\">Kolesava leads the peloton by only 42 seconds heading on the flat road to the base of the Koppenberg.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-50km-to-go\"><span>50km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:34:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:34:26.183Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-21eb3967-b2f5-41d0-925f-6b331f752a29\">The climb made its mark on the breakaway too, with Kolesava alone at the front. It&#8217;s a hugely brave ride from the Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto rider who was struggling earlier in the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:32:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:32:38.585Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fcd479ab-fa53-41e7-86bc-0e913258770a\">The Eikenberg has made its mark. Not only is the breakaway&#8217;s advantage down, the peloton is scrambling to stay together, a number of riders dropped under the pressure of FDJ United-SUEZ and their Swiss rider, Elise Chabbey.<br \/>Her leader Demi Vollering moves to the front. We&#8217;re racing for position on the Koppenberg now.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:29:43+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:29:43.383Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-42274ab3-f86b-4f1a-bd7d-d45dd313a591\">A nasty looking crash for Brodie Chapman (UAE Team ADQ), she&#8217;s one of er team&#8217;s strongest engines and is unlikely to rejoin the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:28:04+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:28:04.361Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ae73188e-b112-4219-9980-1e6b1d7e69ba\">Onto the Eikenberg.<br \/>It&#8217;s yet another cobbled climb, 1200m long and 5.2% average gradient, though it ramps up to 10%.<br \/>Wrezin, Kolesava, Beekhuis and Von Berswordt lead by 1.32.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:25:06+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:25:06.529Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-becb939f-e1f7-4441-bc9a-b1fb06be15f1\">The climbs and cobbles come thick and fast now. Next up is the Eikenberg which comes at 52.5km to go. It signals the beginning of the end, with the Koppenberg coming soon after and a series of tough challenges where the race will be made.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:24:01+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:24:01.553Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-836f3f52-c61d-4682-ad2c-f7d4106873ae\">Marlen Reusser&#8217;s attack on the Molenberg put the cat among the pigeons and will have hurt plenty of her rivals, even if the race came back together.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-eef60227-4ef3-4e0b-95a2-9ddb2c987ef8\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Marlen Reusser (Movistar) attacks on the Molenberg during the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:18:02+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:18:02.861Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8eb10792-4008-4498-89f5-679018957cee\">The race has eased slightly. Some attacks are coming from what is a large bunch, but they&#8217;re being closed down as the breakaway&#8217;s lead has settled around the two minute mark.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-60km-remaining\"><span>60km remaining <\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:11:15+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:11:15.699Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-7c9a3045-08dd-4dee-84fd-4260447222e8\">With the gap under two minutes and the wind howling across the open fields, some riders are looking to attack, but nothing is sticking<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:07:56+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:07:56.625Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4894a496-e266-4e31-b40f-4a819958a7b0\">Not only do you need to be strong in Flanders, but you also need to be switched on at all times. Position and course knowledge are so important. <br \/>Next up is the tarmacced Marlboroughstraat.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:05:08+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:05:08.799Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9f0bd3f5-7a41-4d4b-b700-30543e54bf04\">Reusser&#8217;s move threatened to split the race and a small group did form, though the race has re-formed as they stream over the open fields at the top.<br \/>The gap is only 2.10 though!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:03:20+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:03:20.225Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9f46902e-d905-4b38-8f74-edd4e2ea8cce\">The break is over the Molenberg, but the bunch is frantic, fighting for the tight turn into the bottom. After winning Dwars Door Vlaanderen in midweek, Marlen Reusser led onto the cobbles and is flying!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:01:30+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:01:30.400Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9e32fbdd-2b88-4345-a5fe-04cf2038e931\">The MOlenberg is 463m at and average gradient of 7%. It&#8217;s cobbled and brutal. Kolesava is making light work of it though, gliding over the stones.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:59:43+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:59:43.517Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0f03e7f9-2812-4e7f-9de6-adc1fe3c8c93\">The pace is frighteningly fast in the peloton now, it will be important to be at or near the front when they hit the Molenberg. It&#8217;s a cliche, but there are so many points on the Flanders course where the race can be lost.<br \/>The lead for Wrezin, Kolesava, Beekhuis and Von Berswordt is now only 2.50.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-70km-to-go\"><span>70km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:57:04+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:57:04.916Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d4feb74a-7b4c-41d3-ad37-156acb119b0c\">The breakaway worked well throughout the day, but the pace is up and they&#8217;re slipping back one by one.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-41716379-09fc-4326-be72-1a074cc18f61\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:54:49+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:54:49.704Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-bd75bebb-8a90-4844-9d70-0ab3ef8ddcb9\">More cobbles! It&#8217;s relentless! It&#8217;s Jagerij now. This one&#8217;s flat and only 600m, but the tough gets going very soon, with the Molenberg only just up the road.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:51:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:51:53.505Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5b54043f-77d1-417f-97ba-781dd19b340a\">Yonna van Dam was in the breakaway at In Flanders Fields last week, but has just been dropped from the leading group. Mrugal is slipping back too, so now only Wrezin, Kolesava, Beekhuis and Von Berswordt are at the front, 4 minutes ahead of the bunch.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:49:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:49:26.020Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2435beac-e78e-4854-8ed1-602a1249cd7e\">The leaders are on cobbled sector number four, Kerkgate is 1400m in length but is very slightly uphill, quite unpleasant!<br \/>In the bunch Visma-Lease a Bike, UAE Team ADQ and SD Worx are doing the work. Movistar have been up there, but one of their key strongwomen, Aude Biannic just suffered a small crash.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:43:24+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:43:24.415Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ff81f825-010b-4ce8-89b1-1f17c2a922b1\">The leading group are over the Wolvenberg now, while the bunch have just ridden out of Oudenaarde with the gap coming down again.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Wrezin, Van Dam, Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt lead by 4.30.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-80km-to-race\"><span>80km to race<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:39:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:39:38.816Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-530400a6-ae5e-4e52-94b4-eb790b30c2d8\">One of the many complications of racing in Belgium is the road furniture and it&#8217;s caused a huge crash in the peloton, a number of riders coming down after someone hit a partition bollard.<br \/>Former French champion, Victoire Berteau (Cofidis) is one of those affected.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:36:45+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:36:45.652Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-28e2c5af-290c-41b9-bca4-9a1ec595b811\">The breakaway are now heading through the start and finish town of Oudenaarde before the first climb, the Wolvenberg, just outside town.<br \/>We&#8217;re now getting into the meat of the race and the peloton will need to take some time out of the leaders.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:32:20+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:32:20.234Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-70992ae0-698a-4e32-a08d-5ae4f000b78e\">As we mentioned earlier, thawing is blowing very hard out there and now it&#8217;s in the face of the riders the pace has really dropped, which is why the gap has grown so much.<br \/>Over six minutes now, such a gap is not a common thing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:28:16+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:28:16.840Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-68632754-181a-4987-877f-c06b4e4066db\">All change at the front now.<br \/>Wrezin, Van Dam, Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt now lead the peloton by well over five minutes, while Blanco, Seynave have been dropped by the break.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-90km-to-go\"><span>90km to go <\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:25:28+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:25:28.493Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-722807a3-42c0-4297-9265-b06d81aab10a\"><strong>Enjoying our live race coverage? Subscribe to Cyclingnews for an all-access pass to our unrivalled reporting of WorldTour racing, bike tech and exclusive in-depth features. Plus, access to the Cyclingnews app to follow the action on-the-go! <\/strong><u><strong>Find out more.<\/strong><\/u><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:23:57+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:23:57.134Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2c087f66-1305-4d49-ad90-b8888c1eb2e3\">As a three time winner Lotte Kopecky started today as one of the favourites. <br \/>Bad luck meant she had a slightly rocky start to the season, but she\u2019s had two big wins so far.<br \/><strong>First she won at at Nokere Koerse<\/strong> then<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>days later she won a gripping Milan-Sanremo<\/strong><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-09e1265a-68f6-48dd-ae40-8e5b04fff9b9\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx-Protime) wins the 2026 edition of Milan-Sanremo Women. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:16:44+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:16:44.844Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8b68bc7e-a696-4190-92cd-123395258332\">The day&#8217;s first climb is not too far away now, so expect the peloton to become increasingly interested and increasingly quick.<br \/>It&#8217;s the Wolvenberg, which starats with 82km to go. It&#8217;s not a cobbled climb, but it has a maximum gradient of 17%!<br \/>It&#8217;s only short though, 645m averaging 7.9%.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:13:42+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:13:42.863Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f9ac0a23-04c5-4a28-90ed-7c049a92ec70\">After the Lippenhovenstraat and Paddestraat one-two the gap is coming down as predicted, the peloton are now only 3.41 down. <br \/>We&#8217;re told the leading quartet is Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt, <strong>NOT<\/strong> Blanco, Seynave, Wrezin and Van Dam, who are the secnd group, still just over 30 seconds down.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-100km-to-go\"><span>100km to go!<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:08:37+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:08:37.062Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-260e5965-aa86-4b47-8056-81cff66e5b20\">Paddestraat now! This one is slightly longer and slightly down hill and clearly not the favourite place for Kolesava, who&#8217;s struggling to hold on.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:05:00+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:05:00.216Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a1ec2a98-2271-490f-a4e7-7954329d0707\">Onto the Lipphovenstraat! It&#8217;s flat and about 1300m in length.<br \/>The peloton are now 4.08 behind the leaders.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:02:11+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:02:11.216Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c5a1ec5c-2423-4cd2-add0-2eb7e1b597eb\">The cobbled Lipphovenstraat is coming in the next few kilometres, by the end of that and the Paddestraat there&#8217;s little down our two groups will still be leading, but we could see their advantage beginning to drop as the fight for position comes in the peloton.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-a5f45e41-228f-4fdd-9d49-4f40d8c9029b\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:54:49+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:54:49.767Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-cea71360-5b71-4e91-99fa-ebe6e9ca6ba6\">As it stands Blanco, Seynave, Wrezin and Van Dam continue to lead <br \/>Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt by 35 seconds.<br \/>Meanwhile the peloton has really let the gap grow out and they now trail the leaders by 4.35!<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-110km-left-to-race\"><span>110km left to race<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:51:28+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:51:28.701Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d99a33f6-2d60-402b-b30b-888f3d944e9c\">American and Olympic champion Kristen Faulkner is racing in Europe for the first time this season.<br \/><strong>She&#8217;s hopes her EF Education-Oatly team can get a result today by being &#8220;a little sneaky.&#8221;<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-15bc0b76-43e3-476b-9722-89794407a9e0\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:46:14+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:46:14.791Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8812a571-4611-4cd1-8028-0d71a6b7abd8\">This race and the sport at this time of year are known for cobbles and the Lange Munte was today&#8217;s first stretch for the peloton.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-10ffbd87-cc06-406c-ab3d-89b9bd24b438\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">The peloton tackle the cobbles of the Lange Munte during the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:42:49+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:42:49.300Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2ec53c23-0366-4cdc-ba74-d9902f26e204\">We&#8217;re getting reports of a crash for Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx-Protime). She&#8217;s back up and in the bunch, but almost every crash hurts so this could affect the team&#8217;s strategy, though of course, they still have Lotte Kopecky.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:37:58+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:37:58.186Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ece508ac-a609-4b6a-bbb6-aab9bc6db245\">A weather update for you, the wind remains at almost 30km\/h from the west. this is plenty strong enough to affect the race, but the route is such that you never go in one direction long enough for echelons to really break the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:33:10+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:33:10.121Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d1c9dbc1-847a-45ed-b7bb-f875044d9cf5\">Our two breakaway groups remain 35 seconds apart, while the peloton are now 2.20 behind the front of the race.<br \/>We have two breakaways!<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-125km-to-go\"><span>125km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:29:19+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:29:19.525Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e2db8c2e-d09a-4495-9262-7668d4d3f05f\">The next obstacle for the race is the one-two cobbled sectors of Lipphovenstraat and Paddestraat. The first of those comes after 59.7km, so we have a way to go just yet.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:25:35+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:25:35.003Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e7eec256-5569-4ecd-b44d-abaa3654830a\">With the Lange Munte behind us Blanco, Seynave, Wrezin and Van Dam (Citymech-Customm) lead the second group of <br \/>Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt by 35 seconds with the peloton a further minute behind.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:21:58+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:21:58.856Z<\/time><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-off-the-first-cobbles\"><span>Off the first cobbles<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:21:33+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:21:33.151Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ba87daf4-3d54-4e3f-9230-b6e7c564e916\">We have two groups off the front.<br \/>Iurani Blanco (Human Powered Health)<br \/>Ilken Seynave (Lotto-Intermarch\u00e9)<br \/>Caroline Wrezin (St Michel-Preference Home-Auber93)<br \/>Yonna van Dam (Citymech-Customm)<br \/>lead the buch by 10 seconds while <br \/>Anastasiya Kolesava (Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto)<br \/>Teuntje Beekhuis (UNO-X Mobility)<br \/>Alison Mrugal (Mayenne-Monbana-My Pie)<br \/>Sophie von Berswordt (VolkerWessels)<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">are in-between the two. This is nowhere near a done deal!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:18:34+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:18:34.403Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-dfc8047f-c423-42f2-a46d-1ae3e61b2aeb\">There&#8217;s a confused picture from the race at the moment, though we&#8217;re sure four women lead with a small gap.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-30km-raced\"><span>30km raced<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:10:21+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:10:21.978Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e2e7122d-fb2d-4449-9214-6f595726bed1\">Our leading group is comprised of:<br \/>Anastasiya Kolesava (Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto)<br \/>Teuntje Beekhuis (UNO-X Mobility)<br \/>Alison Mrugal (Mayenne-Monbana-My Pie)<br \/>Sophie von Berswordt (VolkerWessels)<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">only have the slimmest of gaps and the cobbles begin soon, can they build their lead or will they be caught in the fight for position?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:04:58+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:04:58.464Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f58f1781-1a39-4dbb-a6dc-bff12875e1f4\">We&#8217;ve had a few moves off the front but only now has anything stuck, we have four women with a small gap.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-20km-raced\"><span>20km raced!<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:01:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:01:53.871Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ea65b680-7929-42a4-a980-2d88f74fc946\">Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot is one of the superstars of cycle sport, with world titles across the disciplines.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>She was second at the Tour of Flanders last year and she knows she and her Visma-Lease a Bike team can win today. <\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-aa95d8a4-de01-4496-972f-b13a56f3ae66\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:55:40+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:55:40.971Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-23be40e9-4d66-4ba6-83b4-9b9b387425a2\">The first of six cobbled sectors is the Lange Munte which comes after 29.3km. There are nine climbs too, the Wolvenberg, which opens the climbing after 82km, is one of only two bergs which is on tarmac, making the remaining seven very challenging indeed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:51:12+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:51:12.917Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b1186d06-dad9-4ecd-8506-d9b80e168752\">Despite plenty of attacking at the front of the race, the peloton is still together.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-154km-left-to-race\"><span>154km left to race<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:50:09+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:50:09.938Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-af0030b6-02c2-43b8-a2b9-09186d71d7a8\">Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx-Protime) has proved herself over and again as not only the best sprinter but one of the world\u2019s best riders. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Even if she doesn\u2019t win today she can still have an influence on the race, she thinks so, saying &#8220;I can give others some pressure.&#8221; <\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-8130eefa-de5c-44e8-8da7-496dbaed8a5d\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx-Protime) before the 2026 edition of the Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:43:37+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:43:37.666Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-72413a27-08e8-4da0-a680-1a924408b162\">The fight is already on for the breakaway!<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-8987a25e-3317-4e4a-979f-a34676a7ee94\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">American rider Heidi Franz (St Michel &#8211; Preference Home) attacks the front of the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:38:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:38:26.304Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0e664c82-b03d-4592-8249-b84d2c049773\">As for the weather, it&#8217;s reasonably warm, with highs of 12\u00baC some light rain and high winds up to almost 30k\/mh. That&#8217;ll be a tailwind on the final few kilometres, ideal for a breakaway.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:35:59+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:35:59.609Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b8648e78-876a-418d-8a46-845b98f63469\">The race is on!<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-164-1km-to-go\"><span>164.1km to go!<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:31:29+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:31:29.432Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9a7224cc-5581-4ee6-8601-3990b1324045\">One woman who could have a major influence on today&#8217;s race is Franziska Koch, the German champion who moved to FDJ United-SUEZ this year to support Demi Vollering.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>Is Franziska Koch the best signing of the year?<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-abb56466-fb98-43ad-8005-cb933b3cf792\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">German champion Franziska Koch (FDJ United-SUEZ) during the 2026 Dwars Door Vlaanderen <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:28:37+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:28:37.748Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-44686fa6-5902-4768-af25-ef896f089acc\">While the first edition of the race in 2004, won by Zulfiya Zabirova, covered only 94km, this year we\u2019ve got 164.1km, with plenty of cobbles and bergs on the menu.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:26:29+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:26:29.226Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b8aa258d-516b-4b34-97cb-e33ff8e04922\">Here we go! We\u2019re rolling for 2.9km of neutral, riding out through Bevere before we finally get racing!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:23:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:23:53.628Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ac77570d-ae1b-434b-bed3-6c13d11e91da\">Kopecky might be the the record winner, but when she took her first title back in 2022 she was only the second Belgian to win the country\u2019s most iconic race, with Grace Verbeke taking the honours way back in 2010.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:22:24+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:22:24.884Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fd8aded4-ab04-43af-bf77-861b93d9dc6b\">Double winners include Mirjam Melchers, Judith Arndt, Annemiek van Vleuten and Elisa Longo Borghini (UAE Team ADQ), but only one woman has won three editions: Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx-Protime). <\/p>\n<p><strong>Tour of Flanders Women: Lotte Kopecky makes history with record third victory. <\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-e33f62db-3230-41af-996f-d0e1e1d00dfe\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:16:23+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:16:23.467Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1d3df261-8c9f-4537-8826-a70f8d1e77fd\">The Tour of Flanders is one of the most coveted races each season and some of the biggest names of the sport have won over the years. Nicole Cooke, Ina Yoko Teutenberg, Marianne Vos, Coryn Labecki, Lizzie Deignan and Ellen van Dijk all grace the race palmar\u00e8s.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:09:55+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:09:55.353Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c3da0760-ae0c-41dc-8b4f-aeee4e00ef65\">Though Milan Sanremo was the first of the men\u2019s Monuments to host a women\u2019s race, way back in 1999, that only ran until 2005, by which time De Ronde women\u2019s race was in its second edition.<br \/>While Sanremo disappeared for 20 years, Flanders has run continually since its inception, making it the longest running of all women\u2019s Monuments.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">This is the 23rd edition.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:00:22+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:00:22.726Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b87d8b6e-9c3c-4074-8bc7-ad7c1bdbac82\">Our most recent winner in these spring Classics was Movistar&#8217;s Marlen Reusser, the Swiss rider winning an enthralling edition of Dwars Door Vlaanderen.<br \/>How did she do it? <strong>Our report is here.<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-59d9ab2f-db1e-4771-b95c-04a55c7870da\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Marlen Reusser (Movistar) wins the 2026 edition of Dwars Door Vlaanderen <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T10:50:28+00:00\">2026-04-05T10:50:28.206Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f70711f1-28a8-429c-b9f9-379f78c31e37\">Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx-Protime) is only one of more than 130 women on the start line today and though she\u2019s in flying form with wins at Nokere Koerse and Milan-Sanremo, there are plenty of others hoping for success.<br \/><strong>Our preview is here.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T10:42:56+00:00\">2026-04-05T10:42:56.354Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4c164513-0e47-4be2-ad62-6e4a628443b3\">We\u2019re in what has become the race\u2019s spiritual home of Oudenaarde for the start this year. We roll out for 2.9km of neutral at 13:25 (local time) before the winner crosses the line back in Oudenaarde after 164.1km of what\u2019s sure to be frantic racing.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-0762b18d-9200-4009-9455-78ca283fe974\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Demi Vollering is interviewed as her FDJ United-SUEZ team sign on for the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T10:38:20+00:00\">2026-04-05T10:38:20.420Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-771e56e2-6480-4930-87ca-a3f5bde56465\">Good afternoon and welcome to our live coverage of this year\u2019s Tour of Flanders Women Elite. Always one of the most exiting, fascinating, entertaining and keenly anticipated races of the season!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mt-6 lg:px-0 relative max-w-[1070px] mx-auto viafoura-twig-component px-4\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class='vfcustom-community-guidelines'&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"mostpopular\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-mostpopular widget-dynamic-mostpopular widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pXzA3ycmk4ezhoaj3JThwd-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pXzA3ycmk4ezhoaj3JThwd-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pXzA3ycmk4ezhoaj3JThwd-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pXzA3ycmk4ezhoaj3JThwd-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pXzA3ycmk4ezhoaj3JThwd.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pXzA3ycmk4ezhoaj3JThwd.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pXzA3ycmk4ezhoaj3JThwd.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;I will come back for sure&#8217; \u2013 Remco Evenepoel bullish on cobbled Classics after taking third in his Tour of Flanders debut; is a future ride in Paris-Roubaix coming?<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;I was just not strong enough&#8217; \u2013 Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot bettered by Demi Vollering&#8217;s Kwaremont power to finish second in Tour of Flanders again<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Tour of Flanders Women: Demi Vollering sails to victory with solo attack on Oude Kwaremont<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;We could only have come back if they had started looking at each other&#8217; &#8211; Wout van Aert settles for fourth in Tour of Flanders<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Tour of Flanders: Indomitable Tadej Poga\u010dar solos to repeat victory after Oude Kwaremont attack<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero hero-live news-article widget-hero widget-hero-fter-review\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\" class=\"news-article\">\n<div class=\"header-container\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nWomen&#8217;s Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTour of Flanders Women\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<header>\n<div class=\"header-sub-container\">\n<h1 class=\"review-title-long live-report\">As it happened: The race is made with the Oude Kwaremont producing the winner of the Tour of Flanders Women<\/h1>\n<h2>A solo move after 164km packed full of cobbles and climbs on the menu in Belgium&#8217;s biggest day.<br \/>\n<\/h2>\n<div class=\"byline\">\nLive-reports<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nOwen Rogers <\/span><span><br \/>\nlast updated<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T17:15:26Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n5 April 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<nav class=\"socialite-widget box less-space \" data-contexturl=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/live\/tour-of-flanders-women-live-can-lotte-kopecky-extend-her-winning-record-or-will-someone-else-take-belgiums-most-iconic-race\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"socialite\">\n<ul class=\"socialite-widget-ul\">\n<li class=\"socialite-widget-item social-facebook\">\n<li class=\"socialite-widget-item social-twitter\">\n<li class=\"socialite-widget-item social-pinterest\">\n<li class=\"socialite-widget-item social-email\"><\/ul>\n<p><span class=\"text-[color:--comment-count-text-color,inherit]\"><span>0<\/span><span class=\"visible hidden sm:inline-block\">Comments<\/span><\/span><span class=\"text-[color:--comment-count-text-color,inherit] hidden visible sm:inline-block\">Join the conversation<\/span><\/nav>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<figure>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-1024-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><figcaption class=\"mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Demi Vollering (FDJ United-SUEZ) attacks to win the 2025 Tour of Flanders Women<\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: \u00a9 Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\" class=\"news-article\">\n<div class=\"header-container\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nWomen&#8217;s Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTour of Flanders Women\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<header>\n<div class=\"header-sub-container\">\n<h1 class=\"review-title-long live-report\">As it happened: The race is made with the Oude Kwaremont producing the winner of the Tour of Flanders Women<\/h1>\n<h2>A solo move after 164km packed full of cobbles and climbs on the menu in Belgium&#8217;s biggest day.<br \/>\n<\/h2>\n<div class=\"byline\">\nLive-reports<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nOwen Rogers <\/span><span><br \/>\nlast updated<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T17:15:26Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n5 April 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<nav class=\"socialite-widget box less-space \" data-contexturl=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/live\/tour-of-flanders-women-live-can-lotte-kopecky-extend-her-winning-record-or-will-someone-else-take-belgiums-most-iconic-race\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"socialite\">\n<ul class=\"socialite-widget-ul\">\n<li class=\"socialite-widget-item social-facebook\">\n<li class=\"socialite-widget-item social-twitter\">\n<li class=\"socialite-widget-item social-pinterest\">\n<li class=\"socialite-widget-item social-email\"><\/ul>\n<p><span class=\"text-[color:--comment-count-text-color,inherit]\"><span>0<\/span><span class=\"visible hidden sm:inline-block\">Comments<\/span><\/span><span class=\"text-[color:--comment-count-text-color,inherit] hidden visible sm:inline-block\">Join the conversation<\/span><\/nav>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<figure>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-1024-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><figcaption class=\"mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Demi Vollering (FDJ United-SUEZ) attacks to win the 2025 Tour of Flanders Women<\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: \u00a9 Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"pinned-content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-pinned-content widget-contentparsed-pinned-content widget-pinned news-article widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-default widget-content-parsed-live-feed \">\n<div class=\" article-body \">\n<div class>\n<p id=\"elk-ea84c86d-9b21-4bab-b494-c4ed2cca2edc\"><strong>Tour of Flanders Women 2026 &#8211; Preview<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tour of Flanders Women 2026 &#8211; Route<\/strong><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ea84c86d-9b21-4bab-b494-c4ed2cca2edc-2\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>Tour of Flanders 2026 &#8211; Contenders<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>How to watch the Tour of Flanders 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-54859928-af13-4e27-be53-070dc50c7cb1\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FdWnPD3cosoHfqZn4asWDV-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FdWnPD3cosoHfqZn4asWDV-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FdWnPD3cosoHfqZn4asWDV-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FdWnPD3cosoHfqZn4asWDV-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FdWnPD3cosoHfqZn4asWDV-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FdWnPD3cosoHfqZn4asWDV-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Profile of Tour of Flanders Women 2026 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Flanders Classics)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-results\"><span>Results<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-ffba19d0-449c-4e39-b09c-31c998a8e768\"><strong>Tour of Flanders Women full results &amp; report: Demi Vollering sails to victory with solo attack on Oude Kwaremont.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-6qUGayAtqcXepW99HborMV-lt2bnMYBzqWZr84REXhs1081bVrf760z\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-6qUGayAtqcXepW99HborMV-lt2bnMYBzqWZr84REXhs1081bVrf760z slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<thead class=\"table__head\">\n<tr class=\"table__head__row\">\n<th class=\"table__head__heading table__head__heading--left\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Pos<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<th class=\"table__head__heading table__head__heading--left\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Rider (Country) Team<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<th class=\"table__head__heading table__head__heading--left\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Time<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Demi Vollering (Ned) FDJ United-Suez<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>4:16:37<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>2<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot (Fra) Visma-Lease a Bike<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0:00:42<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>3<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Puck Pieterse (Ned) Fenix-Premier Tech<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 2 &#8211; Cell 2 <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>4<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Lotte Kopecky (Bel) SD Worx-Protime<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0:01:04<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>5<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Zoe Backstedt (GBr) Canyon-Sram zondacrypto<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 4 &#8211; Cell 2 <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>6<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Karlijn Swinkels (Ned) UAE Team ADQ<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 5 &#8211; Cell 2 <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Silvia Persico (Ita) UAE Team ADQ<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0:01:07<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>8<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Elisa Longo Borghini (Ita) UAE Team ADQ<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 7 &#8211; Cell 2 <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>9<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Mischa Bredewold (Ned) SD Worx-Protime<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0:01:58<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Franziska Koch (Ger) FDJ United-Suez<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 9 &#8211; Cell 2 <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"live-feed-multipage\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-live-feed-multipage widget-contentparsed-live-feed-multipage news-article widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-default multipage widget-content-parsed-live-feed \">\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\" article-body \">\n<div class=\"button wcp-live-feed-reload\">Refresh <\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T17:15:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T17:15:26.261Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ee3c1e84-16fa-4297-b585-a10a5615475d\"><strong>Enjoying our live race coverage? Subscribe to Cyclingnews for an all-access pass to our unrivalled reporting of WorldTour racing, bike tech and exclusive in-depth features. Plus, access to the Cyclingnews app to follow the action on-the-go! <\/strong><u><strong>Find out more.<\/strong><\/u><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T17:13:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T17:13:38.236Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-67f96918-e4ec-4fa4-a9ac-15e7f399ac31\">Thanks for joining us for today&#8217;s live coverage of the Tour of Flanders Women. Apart from the crashes, it was another fabulous race, with FDJ and Vollering producing an almost flawless performance. <br \/>Backed by the ambitious French team, Vollering has proved herself as the women to be beat in a multitude of scenarios and we can expect more from her as the spring continues. <br \/>See you next week.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-bdadedd6-dff2-4ee0-9f89-cb13aec9163b\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Demi Vollering (FDJ United-SUEZ) after winning the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T17:05:43+00:00\">2026-04-05T17:05:43.315Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4cf2051b-0e13-40d8-bb64-59c56d0c42ed\">Defending champion Lotte Kopecky was going for a record no rider, male or female has achieved &#8211; a fourth win at Flanders &#8211; and that evaded her. <br \/>&#8220;It think we managed well until Oude Kwaremont,&#8221; she said afterwards. &#8220;Then the I had no answer to these attacks and then [I was] hoping I could come back for a place too, but unfortunately we come any closer to Puck and Pauline so it was a sprint for place four.&#8221;<br \/>Her SD Worx-Protime squad were always in the right place, but never seemed to grab the race by the scruff of the neck. They too lost a rider to the horrific crash before the Koppenberg and reportedly lost Wiebes after the climb, so they may be satisfied, if not pleased, with fourth place. But this, combined with their no-show at Dwars Door Vlaanderen, where Kopecky was best placed in 12th, will surely be a concern.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-538c3aca-c3bb-4b73-8f85-d530b28eb729\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lotte Kopecky during the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T16:52:48+00:00\">2026-04-05T16:52:48.226Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a947e971-4cde-464a-add2-70cf67a8af06\">Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot will be upset with another second place, even if her Visma-Lease a Bike team rode well. Another team affected by crashes, they had their two protected riders in the right place at the right time, they just weren&#8217;t able to live with Vollering. <br \/>Finishing 11th, Lieke Nooijen is the real deal and is sure to be closer to the podium in future editions of the race.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-2482626e-a9ae-4bcd-9851-ff384864406c\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot (Visma-Lease a Bike) finishes second at the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T16:35:12+00:00\">2026-04-05T16:35:12.741Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-03f69363-02e0-459c-bfe0-034611e8f305\">UAE Team ADQ also put a great shift in, despite their reward being nothing more than Karlijn Swinkels&#8217; sixth place. <br \/>Longo Borghini worked especially hard, but was unable to bring the group back. To be fair, they lost Brodie Chapman to a crash before the action really got going, then Megan Jastrab immediately before Koppenberg, but after last week&#8217;s <strong>In Flanders Fields<\/strong>, this is becoming a habit they will be desperate to shake.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-44303a61-8edf-4f9d-bfd5-7951f3d63a6a\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Silvia Persico and Elisa Longo Borghini (UAE Team ADQ) after the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T16:16:48+00:00\">2026-04-05T16:16:48.329Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e5b8ed21-e5a0-407c-a8d0-c70116804d3a\">FDJ United-SUEZ were imperious in their support of Vollering, answering her prayers and helping her to a first win at Flanders.<br \/>If any plan ever survived contact with the cobbles it was theirs, with riders seeming to have clearly set roles. Koch and Chabbey would lead onto the climbs and Gery would take responsibility in between. Vollering was unafraid to take responsibility when need be, her win was one born of excellent planning and perfect execution.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-781f2d97-58f3-4123-950a-ccda7c65836f\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T16:09:57+00:00\">2026-04-05T16:09:57.596Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fdba9bcb-2465-4233-81ad-4c25dde12493\">&#8220;Crazy, I lost my words a bit,&#8221; said an emotional Vollering. &#8220;It was super hard, I just felt I need to go as fast as possible and then the suffering is finally over because it was painful.<br \/>&#8220;I really tried to find some calmness in the suffering, you know I really tried to stay super focused and then in the end I&#8217;m doing it. But I also had to because the team did an amazing job again.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:52:57+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:52:57.066Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fc1991a9-0a4c-4168-99ba-cd8711081feb\">Vollering wins, with Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot in second place and Pieterse in third.<br \/>The secind coonsecutive year the French woman has been runner up.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:51:35+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:51:35.622Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9a4ccbf4-8ee3-4a88-88b7-40fbca77c8d3\">Vollering wins! The victory made on the Oude Kwaremont<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-vollering-wins\"><span>Vollering wins!<\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-e0926443-1bfc-44a4-9ac4-cabdfbfcd084\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:49:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:49:38.836Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-851a12fb-0fc2-4fd3-b0e5-24a1d74ae873\">Nothing is really changing behind Vollering and she&#8217;ll take 50 seconds into the the final 2km, while Longo Borghini&#8217;s chase group is 19 seconds further back.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:47:56+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:47:56.660Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3783f710-aafd-4b80-a217-6521781c6512\">Vollering&#8217;s lead is now out to 50 seconds, everyone is riding strongly, but Vollering is strongest. Surely all she needs to do is stay on her bike to take the win?<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-5km-to-go\"><span>5km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:45:36+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:45:36.234Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5312a099-aea6-44ef-afd8-b28493f35272\">The wind is a cross tailwind, still approaching 30km\/h, which minimises the effect of drafting in a group, this will help Vollering, but also Pieterse and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot, who have 15 seconds on the chasing group. Longo Borghini is STILL leading that group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:42:15+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:42:15.401Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0516fcff-eb9e-4080-b44f-ffc6f20fab84\">While Vollering seems comfortable at the front, her pedal stroke strong and smooth, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot and Pieterse look to be struggling and the chasing group is clawing them back. Once in the tailwind section they may be able to stay away though.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:40:03+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:40:03.016Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d92f460c-84ab-4033-b469-ac1ae5036c7f\">Vollering is back into Berchem leading Pieterse and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot by 37 seconds.<br \/>Vollering will cross the Schelde river here, then right right, east, and ride with a tailwind back to Oudenaarde.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-10km-to-go\"><span>10km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:37:44+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:37:44.505Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e048fb96-ed9f-46a5-a4d9-fb92c3e182f8\">Team work and repeated attacks seem to have made the day for Vollering.<br \/>Off the Paterberg she leads Pieterse and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot by 27 seconds, while a lerger chasing group is a few seconds back.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-71c107a8-4fa8-4600-9993-ad40ee9d148d\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:33:42+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:33:42.159Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6b573936-999a-4746-ab4c-83c305ac1372\">The final climb, it&#8217;s cobbled, short but hideously steep. Vollering leads by 24 seconds as she hits the cobbles.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-paterberg\"><span>Paterberg<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:32:25+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:32:25.686Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fa7d7035-b842-4e07-958a-5d0e5feb2f9b\">On the tarmac st the top of the Oude Kwaremont Vollering leads Pieterse and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot by 20 seconds. 10 seconds further back Longo Borghini leads the chase with Swinkels, Persico Kopecky and Zoe Backstedt (Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto) is also there, the Brit coming into her own.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:28:50+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:28:50.291Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6980df07-c3ef-4816-aab2-9eb8e3277af5\">Now Vollering is alone at the front, the chasers are alone with their efforts, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot, Pieterse then Kopecky. We&#8217;re through Kwaremont village and almost off the cobbles.<br \/>It doesn&#8217;t seem as though Kopecky will defend her title.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:26:52+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:26:52.279Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-50dc10cc-a3dd-45a2-ad3b-9a8b55316c3f\">On the cobbles Vollering goes very hard, only Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot is anywhere near, this is the decisive move, surely?<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-attack\"><span>Attack!<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:25:49+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:25:49.851Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3d481c87-09a7-4fc8-93fe-22cd5f3b1e16\">As the road begins to slope gently upwards ahead of the steep cobbled sections, Koch comes back to lead out Vollering. Pieterse is watching her like a hawk!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:24:19+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:24:19.798Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fc5378f5-7637-4738-a439-2a005c00cc3e\">In Berchem riders take a gel and a drink. Oude Kwaremont is hard, 1500m average 4% but with some brutal ramps.<br \/>Lieke Nooijen is leading for her Visma-Lease a Bike team mate, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-20km-towards-the-kawremont\"><span>20km &#8211; Towards the Kawremont <\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:21:42+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:21:42.160Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c6bea697-432a-418b-8210-86b4017b54b1\">We&#8217;re descending the Nieuwe Kwaremont on tarmac down the Berchem now. Hereto race will turn right and head towards the cobbled Oude Kwaremont, our penultimate climb.<br \/>Mischa Bredewold (SD Worx) attacked, but has been caught.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:19:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:19:38.132Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1e0492b4-a33c-4bf5-8bf4-796996a4e9af\">UAE Team ADQ have missed this group and are working hard to chase it down, Longo Borghini, Karlijn Swinkels and Silvia Persico have dragged it back on the Ronde van Vlaanderen Straat. <br \/>Othr are with them so this changes the complexion of the race &#8211; Again!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:16:07+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:16:07.180Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6f0bdecf-e2c6-4a9f-b81c-1b68b3d94f53\">There&#8217;s little in the way of cooperation in the leading group. Only Vollering and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot have taken a turn. <br \/>As the chasers get on Vollering attacks, taking Pieterse with her, though Kopecky drags it back and the same five women lead, racing past the old windmill at the top of the Hotond.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:12:04+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:12:04.069Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a85c8a88-984f-42d6-90bf-66f325c6fb12\">Close the end of the cobbles Koch takes over, leading a small group away. <br \/>Vollering, Kopecky, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot, Puck Pieterse (Fenix-Premer Tech) lead the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:10:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:10:26.855Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f7e238ef-1b3f-4db0-bdfd-64344c0ee06a\">We&#8217;re in Ronse now, the Oude Kruisberg\/Hotond climbs out of the town, the road starting on typical Belgian concrete surface before turning to cobbles. Chabbey is on the front with a huge effort again.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:09:02+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:09:02.504Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-7f289c79-e486-4096-a0de-d113d0410a72\">FDJ United-SUEZ have bossed the race wince before the Koppenberg. C\u00e9lia Gery win particular has driven the race hard. She&#8217;s still on the front after this effort on the Taaienberg.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-3350fe37-5927-4bf8-88c0-2ac0863c0b64\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">C\u00e9lia Gery (FDJ United-SUEZ) leads the race on the Taaienberg during the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:05:30+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:05:30.043Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-39d3a8a8-0ee3-42c3-9794-6d7a07b8ee80\">There&#8217;ll be no rest but there is time for riders to catch their breath before the next climb.<br \/>The Oude Kruisberg\/Hotond comes with 27km to go and is an odd one. The Kruisberg is cobbled and narrow, while the Hotond is just a tarmacced and wide continuation, dragging on and on.<br \/>In total it&#8217;s 2.7km avarage of 4.1%, but harder than it sounds.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-30km-to-go\"><span>30km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:01:32+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:01:32.751Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-39b911be-c634-43e7-9d9a-bf84193082a4\">I spoke too soon, Bredewold is back to help Kopecky, but FDJ are keeping the pace incredibly high.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:58:52+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:58:52.824Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d297c9db-6006-45c8-8d5a-bbed0584891a\">Chabbey leads her FDJ team onto the cobbles, while riders are dropping. Pfeiffer Georgi (Pinic-PostNL) and Mischa Bredewold (SD Worx) are the first two to go, while Millie Couzens (Fenix-Premier Tech) is also distanced.<br \/>As defending champion, Kopecky is now isloated in the leading group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:55:41+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:55:41.659Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ffef1782-d275-41c5-a7c9-c5f20de111a0\">Taaienberg is the next climb. Another cobbled berg it&#8217;s a tough climb, though a tailwind will make it slightly easier. Expect more attacks here, FDJ have number is this group and will look to thin it down.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:51:59+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:51:59.650Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-396ce84b-b7ba-4e9f-a846-a09a6afcaead\">FDJ are in control on the cobbles of the Maria Borrestraat, but the leading group comprises around 20 women, with plenty of teams represented.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-40km\"><span>40km<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:47:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:47:53.710Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-707cde09-14f3-435a-82ce-b1c3797630cd\">Vollering and Koch lead over the top, but she has a large group with her. They include Elisa Longo Borghini andZoe Backstedt (UAE) Letizia Paternoster (Liv-Alula-JAyco), Kopecky, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot (Visma-Lease a Bike) and others.<br \/>They being chased but will the pursuers get back on before the Taaienberg?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:43:44+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:43:44.198Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5a8a2669-ac22-46fb-a23d-6f74fd813aa6\">On the climb and Franziska Koch (FDJ Untied SUEZ) is doing her thing and leading for Vollering. You can lose so much time here you&#8217;ll never see the front of the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:41:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:41:53.060Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-beb6eaab-f5c8-472f-8cae-f2942e19eb79\">There&#8217;s a real fight to be close to the front four this climb, with it so hard and set to cause riders so many problems, it&#8217;s vital for the favourites to be at the front.<br \/>Kolesava leads by 35 seconds.<br \/>There&#8217;s been a sickening crash in the lead in, with Reusser affected, among others.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:38:04+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:38:04.201Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-deeef178-dd78-4727-85ec-48912302dfc4\">Don&#8217;t expect Kolesava to survive the Koppenberg, it&#8217;s brutal and invites attacks.<br \/>The cobbles alone are some of the toughest of the day and while it&#8217;s only 600m, it averages 11.6%, though it&#8217;s steepest ramp is 22%. It&#8217;s very narrow too.<br \/>Let&#8217;s hope it&#8217;s dry now as riders will be walking. If you stop you&#8217;ll really struggle to remount.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:35:34+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:35:34.219Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-25158046-0b6f-4b69-8333-8d905e38fac1\">Kolesava leads the peloton by only 42 seconds heading on the flat road to the base of the Koppenberg.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-50km-to-go\"><span>50km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:34:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:34:26.183Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-21eb3967-b2f5-41d0-925f-6b331f752a29\">The climb made its mark on the breakaway too, with Kolesava alone at the front. It&#8217;s a hugely brave ride from the Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto rider who was struggling earlier in the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:32:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:32:38.585Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fcd479ab-fa53-41e7-86bc-0e913258770a\">The Eikenberg has made its mark. Not only is the breakaway&#8217;s advantage down, the peloton is scrambling to stay together, a number of riders dropped under the pressure of FDJ United-SUEZ and their Swiss rider, Elise Chabbey.<br \/>Her leader Demi Vollering moves to the front. We&#8217;re racing for position on the Koppenberg now.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:29:43+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:29:43.383Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-42274ab3-f86b-4f1a-bd7d-d45dd313a591\">A nasty looking crash for Brodie Chapman (UAE Team ADQ), she&#8217;s one of er team&#8217;s strongest engines and is unlikely to rejoin the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:28:04+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:28:04.361Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ae73188e-b112-4219-9980-1e6b1d7e69ba\">Onto the Eikenberg.<br \/>It&#8217;s yet another cobbled climb, 1200m long and 5.2% average gradient, though it ramps up to 10%.<br \/>Wrezin, Kolesava, Beekhuis and Von Berswordt lead by 1.32.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:25:06+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:25:06.529Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-becb939f-e1f7-4441-bc9a-b1fb06be15f1\">The climbs and cobbles come thick and fast now. Next up is the Eikenberg which comes at 52.5km to go. It signals the beginning of the end, with the Koppenberg coming soon after and a series of tough challenges where the race will be made.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:24:01+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:24:01.553Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-836f3f52-c61d-4682-ad2c-f7d4106873ae\">Marlen Reusser&#8217;s attack on the Molenberg put the cat among the pigeons and will have hurt plenty of her rivals, even if the race came back together.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-eef60227-4ef3-4e0b-95a2-9ddb2c987ef8\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Marlen Reusser (Movistar) attacks on the Molenberg during the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:18:02+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:18:02.861Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8eb10792-4008-4498-89f5-679018957cee\">The race has eased slightly. Some attacks are coming from what is a large bunch, but they&#8217;re being closed down as the breakaway&#8217;s lead has settled around the two minute mark.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-60km-remaining\"><span>60km remaining <\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:11:15+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:11:15.699Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-7c9a3045-08dd-4dee-84fd-4260447222e8\">With the gap under two minutes and the wind howling across the open fields, some riders are looking to attack, but nothing is sticking<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:07:56+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:07:56.625Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4894a496-e266-4e31-b40f-4a819958a7b0\">Not only do you need to be strong in Flanders, but you also need to be switched on at all times. Position and course knowledge are so important. <br \/>Next up is the tarmacced Marlboroughstraat.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:05:08+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:05:08.799Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9f0bd3f5-7a41-4d4b-b700-30543e54bf04\">Reusser&#8217;s move threatened to split the race and a small group did form, though the race has re-formed as they stream over the open fields at the top.<br \/>The gap is only 2.10 though!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:03:20+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:03:20.225Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9f46902e-d905-4b38-8f74-edd4e2ea8cce\">The break is over the Molenberg, but the bunch is frantic, fighting for the tight turn into the bottom. After winning Dwars Door Vlaanderen in midweek, Marlen Reusser led onto the cobbles and is flying!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:01:30+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:01:30.400Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9e32fbdd-2b88-4345-a5fe-04cf2038e931\">The MOlenberg is 463m at and average gradient of 7%. It&#8217;s cobbled and brutal. Kolesava is making light work of it though, gliding over the stones.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:59:43+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:59:43.517Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0f03e7f9-2812-4e7f-9de6-adc1fe3c8c93\">The pace is frighteningly fast in the peloton now, it will be important to be at or near the front when they hit the Molenberg. It&#8217;s a cliche, but there are so many points on the Flanders course where the race can be lost.<br \/>The lead for Wrezin, Kolesava, Beekhuis and Von Berswordt is now only 2.50.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-70km-to-go\"><span>70km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:57:04+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:57:04.916Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d4feb74a-7b4c-41d3-ad37-156acb119b0c\">The breakaway worked well throughout the day, but the pace is up and they&#8217;re slipping back one by one.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-41716379-09fc-4326-be72-1a074cc18f61\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:54:49+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:54:49.704Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-bd75bebb-8a90-4844-9d70-0ab3ef8ddcb9\">More cobbles! It&#8217;s relentless! It&#8217;s Jagerij now. This one&#8217;s flat and only 600m, but the tough gets going very soon, with the Molenberg only just up the road.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:51:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:51:53.505Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5b54043f-77d1-417f-97ba-781dd19b340a\">Yonna van Dam was in the breakaway at In Flanders Fields last week, but has just been dropped from the leading group. Mrugal is slipping back too, so now only Wrezin, Kolesava, Beekhuis and Von Berswordt are at the front, 4 minutes ahead of the bunch.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:49:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:49:26.020Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2435beac-e78e-4854-8ed1-602a1249cd7e\">The leaders are on cobbled sector number four, Kerkgate is 1400m in length but is very slightly uphill, quite unpleasant!<br \/>In the bunch Visma-Lease a Bike, UAE Team ADQ and SD Worx are doing the work. Movistar have been up there, but one of their key strongwomen, Aude Biannic just suffered a small crash.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:43:24+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:43:24.415Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ff81f825-010b-4ce8-89b1-1f17c2a922b1\">The leading group are over the Wolvenberg now, while the bunch have just ridden out of Oudenaarde with the gap coming down again.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Wrezin, Van Dam, Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt lead by 4.30.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-80km-to-race\"><span>80km to race<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:39:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:39:38.816Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-530400a6-ae5e-4e52-94b4-eb790b30c2d8\">One of the many complications of racing in Belgium is the road furniture and it&#8217;s caused a huge crash in the peloton, a number of riders coming down after someone hit a partition bollard.<br \/>Former French champion, Victoire Berteau (Cofidis) is one of those affected.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:36:45+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:36:45.652Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-28e2c5af-290c-41b9-bca4-9a1ec595b811\">The breakaway are now heading through the start and finish town of Oudenaarde before the first climb, the Wolvenberg, just outside town.<br \/>We&#8217;re now getting into the meat of the race and the peloton will need to take some time out of the leaders.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:32:20+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:32:20.234Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-70992ae0-698a-4e32-a08d-5ae4f000b78e\">As we mentioned earlier, thawing is blowing very hard out there and now it&#8217;s in the face of the riders the pace has really dropped, which is why the gap has grown so much.<br \/>Over six minutes now, such a gap is not a common thing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:28:16+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:28:16.840Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-68632754-181a-4987-877f-c06b4e4066db\">All change at the front now.<br \/>Wrezin, Van Dam, Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt now lead the peloton by well over five minutes, while Blanco, Seynave have been dropped by the break.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-90km-to-go\"><span>90km to go <\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:25:28+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:25:28.493Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-722807a3-42c0-4297-9265-b06d81aab10a\"><strong>Enjoying our live race coverage? Subscribe to Cyclingnews for an all-access pass to our unrivalled reporting of WorldTour racing, bike tech and exclusive in-depth features. Plus, access to the Cyclingnews app to follow the action on-the-go! <\/strong><u><strong>Find out more.<\/strong><\/u><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:23:57+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:23:57.134Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2c087f66-1305-4d49-ad90-b8888c1eb2e3\">As a three time winner Lotte Kopecky started today as one of the favourites. <br \/>Bad luck meant she had a slightly rocky start to the season, but she\u2019s had two big wins so far.<br \/><strong>First she won at at Nokere Koerse<\/strong> then<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>days later she won a gripping Milan-Sanremo<\/strong><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-09e1265a-68f6-48dd-ae40-8e5b04fff9b9\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx-Protime) wins the 2026 edition of Milan-Sanremo Women. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:16:44+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:16:44.844Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8b68bc7e-a696-4190-92cd-123395258332\">The day&#8217;s first climb is not too far away now, so expect the peloton to become increasingly interested and increasingly quick.<br \/>It&#8217;s the Wolvenberg, which starats with 82km to go. It&#8217;s not a cobbled climb, but it has a maximum gradient of 17%!<br \/>It&#8217;s only short though, 645m averaging 7.9%.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:13:42+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:13:42.863Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f9ac0a23-04c5-4a28-90ed-7c049a92ec70\">After the Lippenhovenstraat and Paddestraat one-two the gap is coming down as predicted, the peloton are now only 3.41 down. <br \/>We&#8217;re told the leading quartet is Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt, <strong>NOT<\/strong> Blanco, Seynave, Wrezin and Van Dam, who are the secnd group, still just over 30 seconds down.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-100km-to-go\"><span>100km to go!<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:08:37+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:08:37.062Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-260e5965-aa86-4b47-8056-81cff66e5b20\">Paddestraat now! This one is slightly longer and slightly down hill and clearly not the favourite place for Kolesava, who&#8217;s struggling to hold on.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:05:00+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:05:00.216Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a1ec2a98-2271-490f-a4e7-7954329d0707\">Onto the Lipphovenstraat! It&#8217;s flat and about 1300m in length.<br \/>The peloton are now 4.08 behind the leaders.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:02:11+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:02:11.216Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c5a1ec5c-2423-4cd2-add0-2eb7e1b597eb\">The cobbled Lipphovenstraat is coming in the next few kilometres, by the end of that and the Paddestraat there&#8217;s little down our two groups will still be leading, but we could see their advantage beginning to drop as the fight for position comes in the peloton.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-a5f45e41-228f-4fdd-9d49-4f40d8c9029b\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:54:49+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:54:49.767Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-cea71360-5b71-4e91-99fa-ebe6e9ca6ba6\">As it stands Blanco, Seynave, Wrezin and Van Dam continue to lead <br \/>Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt by 35 seconds.<br \/>Meanwhile the peloton has really let the gap grow out and they now trail the leaders by 4.35!<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-110km-left-to-race\"><span>110km left to race<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:51:28+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:51:28.701Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d99a33f6-2d60-402b-b30b-888f3d944e9c\">American and Olympic champion Kristen Faulkner is racing in Europe for the first time this season.<br \/><strong>She&#8217;s hopes her EF Education-Oatly team can get a result today by being &#8220;a little sneaky.&#8221;<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-15bc0b76-43e3-476b-9722-89794407a9e0\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:46:14+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:46:14.791Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8812a571-4611-4cd1-8028-0d71a6b7abd8\">This race and the sport at this time of year are known for cobbles and the Lange Munte was today&#8217;s first stretch for the peloton.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-10ffbd87-cc06-406c-ab3d-89b9bd24b438\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">The peloton tackle the cobbles of the Lange Munte during the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:42:49+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:42:49.300Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2ec53c23-0366-4cdc-ba74-d9902f26e204\">We&#8217;re getting reports of a crash for Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx-Protime). She&#8217;s back up and in the bunch, but almost every crash hurts so this could affect the team&#8217;s strategy, though of course, they still have Lotte Kopecky.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:37:58+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:37:58.186Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ece508ac-a609-4b6a-bbb6-aab9bc6db245\">A weather update for you, the wind remains at almost 30km\/h from the west. this is plenty strong enough to affect the race, but the route is such that you never go in one direction long enough for echelons to really break the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:33:10+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:33:10.121Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d1c9dbc1-847a-45ed-b7bb-f875044d9cf5\">Our two breakaway groups remain 35 seconds apart, while the peloton are now 2.20 behind the front of the race.<br \/>We have two breakaways!<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-125km-to-go\"><span>125km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:29:19+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:29:19.525Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e2db8c2e-d09a-4495-9262-7668d4d3f05f\">The next obstacle for the race is the one-two cobbled sectors of Lipphovenstraat and Paddestraat. The first of those comes after 59.7km, so we have a way to go just yet.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:25:35+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:25:35.003Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e7eec256-5569-4ecd-b44d-abaa3654830a\">With the Lange Munte behind us Blanco, Seynave, Wrezin and Van Dam (Citymech-Customm) lead the second group of <br \/>Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt by 35 seconds with the peloton a further minute behind.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:21:58+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:21:58.856Z<\/time><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-off-the-first-cobbles\"><span>Off the first cobbles<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:21:33+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:21:33.151Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ba87daf4-3d54-4e3f-9230-b6e7c564e916\">We have two groups off the front.<br \/>Iurani Blanco (Human Powered Health)<br \/>Ilken Seynave (Lotto-Intermarch\u00e9)<br \/>Caroline Wrezin (St Michel-Preference Home-Auber93)<br \/>Yonna van Dam (Citymech-Customm)<br \/>lead the buch by 10 seconds while <br \/>Anastasiya Kolesava (Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto)<br \/>Teuntje Beekhuis (UNO-X Mobility)<br \/>Alison Mrugal (Mayenne-Monbana-My Pie)<br \/>Sophie von Berswordt (VolkerWessels)<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">are in-between the two. This is nowhere near a done deal!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:18:34+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:18:34.403Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-dfc8047f-c423-42f2-a46d-1ae3e61b2aeb\">There&#8217;s a confused picture from the race at the moment, though we&#8217;re sure four women lead with a small gap.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-30km-raced\"><span>30km raced<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:10:21+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:10:21.978Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e2e7122d-fb2d-4449-9214-6f595726bed1\">Our leading group is comprised of:<br \/>Anastasiya Kolesava (Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto)<br \/>Teuntje Beekhuis (UNO-X Mobility)<br \/>Alison Mrugal (Mayenne-Monbana-My Pie)<br \/>Sophie von Berswordt (VolkerWessels)<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">only have the slimmest of gaps and the cobbles begin soon, can they build their lead or will they be caught in the fight for position?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:04:58+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:04:58.464Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f58f1781-1a39-4dbb-a6dc-bff12875e1f4\">We&#8217;ve had a few moves off the front but only now has anything stuck, we have four women with a small gap.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-20km-raced\"><span>20km raced!<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:01:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:01:53.871Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ea65b680-7929-42a4-a980-2d88f74fc946\">Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot is one of the superstars of cycle sport, with world titles across the disciplines.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>She was second at the Tour of Flanders last year and she knows she and her Visma-Lease a Bike team can win today. <\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-aa95d8a4-de01-4496-972f-b13a56f3ae66\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:55:40+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:55:40.971Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-23be40e9-4d66-4ba6-83b4-9b9b387425a2\">The first of six cobbled sectors is the Lange Munte which comes after 29.3km. There are nine climbs too, the Wolvenberg, which opens the climbing after 82km, is one of only two bergs which is on tarmac, making the remaining seven very challenging indeed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:51:12+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:51:12.917Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b1186d06-dad9-4ecd-8506-d9b80e168752\">Despite plenty of attacking at the front of the race, the peloton is still together.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-154km-left-to-race\"><span>154km left to race<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:50:09+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:50:09.938Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-af0030b6-02c2-43b8-a2b9-09186d71d7a8\">Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx-Protime) has proved herself over and again as not only the best sprinter but one of the world\u2019s best riders. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Even if she doesn\u2019t win today she can still have an influence on the race, she thinks so, saying &#8220;I can give others some pressure.&#8221; <\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-8130eefa-de5c-44e8-8da7-496dbaed8a5d\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx-Protime) before the 2026 edition of the Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:43:37+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:43:37.666Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-72413a27-08e8-4da0-a680-1a924408b162\">The fight is already on for the breakaway!<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-8987a25e-3317-4e4a-979f-a34676a7ee94\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">American rider Heidi Franz (St Michel &#8211; Preference Home) attacks the front of the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:38:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:38:26.304Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0e664c82-b03d-4592-8249-b84d2c049773\">As for the weather, it&#8217;s reasonably warm, with highs of 12\u00baC some light rain and high winds up to almost 30k\/mh. That&#8217;ll be a tailwind on the final few kilometres, ideal for a breakaway.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:35:59+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:35:59.609Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b8648e78-876a-418d-8a46-845b98f63469\">The race is on!<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-164-1km-to-go\"><span>164.1km to go!<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:31:29+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:31:29.432Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9a7224cc-5581-4ee6-8601-3990b1324045\">One woman who could have a major influence on today&#8217;s race is Franziska Koch, the German champion who moved to FDJ United-SUEZ this year to support Demi Vollering.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>Is Franziska Koch the best signing of the year?<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-abb56466-fb98-43ad-8005-cb933b3cf792\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">German champion Franziska Koch (FDJ United-SUEZ) during the 2026 Dwars Door Vlaanderen <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:28:37+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:28:37.748Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-44686fa6-5902-4768-af25-ef896f089acc\">While the first edition of the race in 2004, won by Zulfiya Zabirova, covered only 94km, this year we\u2019ve got 164.1km, with plenty of cobbles and bergs on the menu.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:26:29+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:26:29.226Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b8aa258d-516b-4b34-97cb-e33ff8e04922\">Here we go! We\u2019re rolling for 2.9km of neutral, riding out through Bevere before we finally get racing!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:23:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:23:53.628Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ac77570d-ae1b-434b-bed3-6c13d11e91da\">Kopecky might be the the record winner, but when she took her first title back in 2022 she was only the second Belgian to win the country\u2019s most iconic race, with Grace Verbeke taking the honours way back in 2010.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:22:24+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:22:24.884Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fd8aded4-ab04-43af-bf77-861b93d9dc6b\">Double winners include Mirjam Melchers, Judith Arndt, Annemiek van Vleuten and Elisa Longo Borghini (UAE Team ADQ), but only one woman has won three editions: Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx-Protime). <\/p>\n<p><strong>Tour of Flanders Women: Lotte Kopecky makes history with record third victory. <\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-e33f62db-3230-41af-996f-d0e1e1d00dfe\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:16:23+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:16:23.467Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1d3df261-8c9f-4537-8826-a70f8d1e77fd\">The Tour of Flanders is one of the most coveted races each season and some of the biggest names of the sport have won over the years. Nicole Cooke, Ina Yoko Teutenberg, Marianne Vos, Coryn Labecki, Lizzie Deignan and Ellen van Dijk all grace the race palmar\u00e8s.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:09:55+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:09:55.353Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c3da0760-ae0c-41dc-8b4f-aeee4e00ef65\">Though Milan Sanremo was the first of the men\u2019s Monuments to host a women\u2019s race, way back in 1999, that only ran until 2005, by which time De Ronde women\u2019s race was in its second edition.<br \/>While Sanremo disappeared for 20 years, Flanders has run continually since its inception, making it the longest running of all women\u2019s Monuments.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">This is the 23rd edition.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:00:22+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:00:22.726Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b87d8b6e-9c3c-4074-8bc7-ad7c1bdbac82\">Our most recent winner in these spring Classics was Movistar&#8217;s Marlen Reusser, the Swiss rider winning an enthralling edition of Dwars Door Vlaanderen.<br \/>How did she do it? <strong>Our report is here.<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-59d9ab2f-db1e-4771-b95c-04a55c7870da\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Marlen Reusser (Movistar) wins the 2026 edition of Dwars Door Vlaanderen <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T10:50:28+00:00\">2026-04-05T10:50:28.206Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f70711f1-28a8-429c-b9f9-379f78c31e37\">Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx-Protime) is only one of more than 130 women on the start line today and though she\u2019s in flying form with wins at Nokere Koerse and Milan-Sanremo, there are plenty of others hoping for success.<br \/><strong>Our preview is here.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T10:42:56+00:00\">2026-04-05T10:42:56.354Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4c164513-0e47-4be2-ad62-6e4a628443b3\">We\u2019re in what has become the race\u2019s spiritual home of Oudenaarde for the start this year. We roll out for 2.9km of neutral at 13:25 (local time) before the winner crosses the line back in Oudenaarde after 164.1km of what\u2019s sure to be frantic racing.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-0762b18d-9200-4009-9455-78ca283fe974\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Demi Vollering is interviewed as her FDJ United-SUEZ team sign on for the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T10:38:20+00:00\">2026-04-05T10:38:20.420Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-771e56e2-6480-4930-87ca-a3f5bde56465\">Good afternoon and welcome to our live coverage of this year\u2019s Tour of Flanders Women Elite. Always one of the most exiting, fascinating, entertaining and keenly anticipated races of the season!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mt-6 lg:px-0 relative max-w-[1070px] mx-auto viafoura-twig-component px-4\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class='vfcustom-community-guidelines'&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\" article-body \">\n<div class=\"button wcp-live-feed-reload\">Refresh <\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T17:15:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T17:15:26.261Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ee3c1e84-16fa-4297-b585-a10a5615475d\"><strong>Enjoying our live race coverage? Subscribe to Cyclingnews for an all-access pass to our unrivalled reporting of WorldTour racing, bike tech and exclusive in-depth features. Plus, access to the Cyclingnews app to follow the action on-the-go! <\/strong><u><strong>Find out more.<\/strong><\/u><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T17:13:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T17:13:38.236Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-67f96918-e4ec-4fa4-a9ac-15e7f399ac31\">Thanks for joining us for today&#8217;s live coverage of the Tour of Flanders Women. Apart from the crashes, it was another fabulous race, with FDJ and Vollering producing an almost flawless performance. <br \/>Backed by the ambitious French team, Vollering has proved herself as the women to be beat in a multitude of scenarios and we can expect more from her as the spring continues. <br \/>See you next week.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-bdadedd6-dff2-4ee0-9f89-cb13aec9163b\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zwqWeGieQQZne4teoCAAhn-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Demi Vollering (FDJ United-SUEZ) after winning the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T17:05:43+00:00\">2026-04-05T17:05:43.315Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4cf2051b-0e13-40d8-bb64-59c56d0c42ed\">Defending champion Lotte Kopecky was going for a record no rider, male or female has achieved &#8211; a fourth win at Flanders &#8211; and that evaded her. <br \/>&#8220;It think we managed well until Oude Kwaremont,&#8221; she said afterwards. &#8220;Then the I had no answer to these attacks and then [I was] hoping I could come back for a place too, but unfortunately we come any closer to Puck and Pauline so it was a sprint for place four.&#8221;<br \/>Her SD Worx-Protime squad were always in the right place, but never seemed to grab the race by the scruff of the neck. They too lost a rider to the horrific crash before the Koppenberg and reportedly lost Wiebes after the climb, so they may be satisfied, if not pleased, with fourth place. But this, combined with their no-show at Dwars Door Vlaanderen, where Kopecky was best placed in 12th, will surely be a concern.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-538c3aca-c3bb-4b73-8f85-d530b28eb729\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FSMysby4RfsUe9MMKZC97S-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lotte Kopecky during the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T16:52:48+00:00\">2026-04-05T16:52:48.226Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a947e971-4cde-464a-add2-70cf67a8af06\">Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot will be upset with another second place, even if her Visma-Lease a Bike team rode well. Another team affected by crashes, they had their two protected riders in the right place at the right time, they just weren&#8217;t able to live with Vollering. <br \/>Finishing 11th, Lieke Nooijen is the real deal and is sure to be closer to the podium in future editions of the race.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-2482626e-a9ae-4bcd-9851-ff384864406c\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ujnXUbRSZgVPsDzEaiUxuX-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot (Visma-Lease a Bike) finishes second at the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T16:35:12+00:00\">2026-04-05T16:35:12.741Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-03f69363-02e0-459c-bfe0-034611e8f305\">UAE Team ADQ also put a great shift in, despite their reward being nothing more than Karlijn Swinkels&#8217; sixth place. <br \/>Longo Borghini worked especially hard, but was unable to bring the group back. To be fair, they lost Brodie Chapman to a crash before the action really got going, then Megan Jastrab immediately before Koppenberg, but after last week&#8217;s <strong>In Flanders Fields<\/strong>, this is becoming a habit they will be desperate to shake.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-44303a61-8edf-4f9d-bfd5-7951f3d63a6a\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/biaLtCd7FdKjRD95M3Hqz7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Silvia Persico and Elisa Longo Borghini (UAE Team ADQ) after the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T16:16:48+00:00\">2026-04-05T16:16:48.329Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e5b8ed21-e5a0-407c-a8d0-c70116804d3a\">FDJ United-SUEZ were imperious in their support of Vollering, answering her prayers and helping her to a first win at Flanders.<br \/>If any plan ever survived contact with the cobbles it was theirs, with riders seeming to have clearly set roles. Koch and Chabbey would lead onto the climbs and Gery would take responsibility in between. Vollering was unafraid to take responsibility when need be, her win was one born of excellent planning and perfect execution.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-781f2d97-58f3-4123-950a-ccda7c65836f\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vJ7oDAyfWzMHaXgTZckyY6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T16:09:57+00:00\">2026-04-05T16:09:57.596Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fdba9bcb-2465-4233-81ad-4c25dde12493\">&#8220;Crazy, I lost my words a bit,&#8221; said an emotional Vollering. &#8220;It was super hard, I just felt I need to go as fast as possible and then the suffering is finally over because it was painful.<br \/>&#8220;I really tried to find some calmness in the suffering, you know I really tried to stay super focused and then in the end I&#8217;m doing it. But I also had to because the team did an amazing job again.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:52:57+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:52:57.066Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fc1991a9-0a4c-4168-99ba-cd8711081feb\">Vollering wins, with Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot in second place and Pieterse in third.<br \/>The secind coonsecutive year the French woman has been runner up.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:51:35+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:51:35.622Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9a4ccbf4-8ee3-4a88-88b7-40fbca77c8d3\">Vollering wins! The victory made on the Oude Kwaremont<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-vollering-wins\"><span>Vollering wins!<\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-e0926443-1bfc-44a4-9ac4-cabdfbfcd084\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NotCf62KKSZhnYeLQH6Y9B-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:49:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:49:38.836Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-851a12fb-0fc2-4fd3-b0e5-24a1d74ae873\">Nothing is really changing behind Vollering and she&#8217;ll take 50 seconds into the the final 2km, while Longo Borghini&#8217;s chase group is 19 seconds further back.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:47:56+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:47:56.660Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3783f710-aafd-4b80-a217-6521781c6512\">Vollering&#8217;s lead is now out to 50 seconds, everyone is riding strongly, but Vollering is strongest. Surely all she needs to do is stay on her bike to take the win?<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-5km-to-go\"><span>5km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:45:36+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:45:36.234Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5312a099-aea6-44ef-afd8-b28493f35272\">The wind is a cross tailwind, still approaching 30km\/h, which minimises the effect of drafting in a group, this will help Vollering, but also Pieterse and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot, who have 15 seconds on the chasing group. Longo Borghini is STILL leading that group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:42:15+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:42:15.401Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0516fcff-eb9e-4080-b44f-ffc6f20fab84\">While Vollering seems comfortable at the front, her pedal stroke strong and smooth, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot and Pieterse look to be struggling and the chasing group is clawing them back. Once in the tailwind section they may be able to stay away though.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:40:03+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:40:03.016Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d92f460c-84ab-4033-b469-ac1ae5036c7f\">Vollering is back into Berchem leading Pieterse and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot by 37 seconds.<br \/>Vollering will cross the Schelde river here, then right right, east, and ride with a tailwind back to Oudenaarde.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-10km-to-go\"><span>10km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:37:44+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:37:44.505Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e048fb96-ed9f-46a5-a4d9-fb92c3e182f8\">Team work and repeated attacks seem to have made the day for Vollering.<br \/>Off the Paterberg she leads Pieterse and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot by 27 seconds, while a lerger chasing group is a few seconds back.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-71c107a8-4fa8-4600-9993-ad40ee9d148d\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Kk3MekRKGKk8SqD4jFhtcB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:33:42+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:33:42.159Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6b573936-999a-4746-ab4c-83c305ac1372\">The final climb, it&#8217;s cobbled, short but hideously steep. Vollering leads by 24 seconds as she hits the cobbles.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-paterberg\"><span>Paterberg<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:32:25+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:32:25.686Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fa7d7035-b842-4e07-958a-5d0e5feb2f9b\">On the tarmac st the top of the Oude Kwaremont Vollering leads Pieterse and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot by 20 seconds. 10 seconds further back Longo Borghini leads the chase with Swinkels, Persico Kopecky and Zoe Backstedt (Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto) is also there, the Brit coming into her own.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:28:50+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:28:50.291Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6980df07-c3ef-4816-aab2-9eb8e3277af5\">Now Vollering is alone at the front, the chasers are alone with their efforts, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot, Pieterse then Kopecky. We&#8217;re through Kwaremont village and almost off the cobbles.<br \/>It doesn&#8217;t seem as though Kopecky will defend her title.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:26:52+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:26:52.279Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-50dc10cc-a3dd-45a2-ad3b-9a8b55316c3f\">On the cobbles Vollering goes very hard, only Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot is anywhere near, this is the decisive move, surely?<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-attack\"><span>Attack!<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:25:49+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:25:49.851Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3d481c87-09a7-4fc8-93fe-22cd5f3b1e16\">As the road begins to slope gently upwards ahead of the steep cobbled sections, Koch comes back to lead out Vollering. Pieterse is watching her like a hawk!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:24:19+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:24:19.798Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fc5378f5-7637-4738-a439-2a005c00cc3e\">In Berchem riders take a gel and a drink. Oude Kwaremont is hard, 1500m average 4% but with some brutal ramps.<br \/>Lieke Nooijen is leading for her Visma-Lease a Bike team mate, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-20km-towards-the-kawremont\"><span>20km &#8211; Towards the Kawremont <\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:21:42+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:21:42.160Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c6bea697-432a-418b-8210-86b4017b54b1\">We&#8217;re descending the Nieuwe Kwaremont on tarmac down the Berchem now. Hereto race will turn right and head towards the cobbled Oude Kwaremont, our penultimate climb.<br \/>Mischa Bredewold (SD Worx) attacked, but has been caught.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:19:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:19:38.132Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1e0492b4-a33c-4bf5-8bf4-796996a4e9af\">UAE Team ADQ have missed this group and are working hard to chase it down, Longo Borghini, Karlijn Swinkels and Silvia Persico have dragged it back on the Ronde van Vlaanderen Straat. <br \/>Othr are with them so this changes the complexion of the race &#8211; Again!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:16:07+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:16:07.180Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6f0bdecf-e2c6-4a9f-b81c-1b68b3d94f53\">There&#8217;s little in the way of cooperation in the leading group. Only Vollering and Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot have taken a turn. <br \/>As the chasers get on Vollering attacks, taking Pieterse with her, though Kopecky drags it back and the same five women lead, racing past the old windmill at the top of the Hotond.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:12:04+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:12:04.069Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a85c8a88-984f-42d6-90bf-66f325c6fb12\">Close the end of the cobbles Koch takes over, leading a small group away. <br \/>Vollering, Kopecky, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot, Puck Pieterse (Fenix-Premer Tech) lead the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:10:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:10:26.855Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f7e238ef-1b3f-4db0-bdfd-64344c0ee06a\">We&#8217;re in Ronse now, the Oude Kruisberg\/Hotond climbs out of the town, the road starting on typical Belgian concrete surface before turning to cobbles. Chabbey is on the front with a huge effort again.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:09:02+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:09:02.504Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-7f289c79-e486-4096-a0de-d113d0410a72\">FDJ United-SUEZ have bossed the race wince before the Koppenberg. C\u00e9lia Gery win particular has driven the race hard. She&#8217;s still on the front after this effort on the Taaienberg.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-3350fe37-5927-4bf8-88c0-2ac0863c0b64\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9a9DipyZ9m5xeZFRdyiDz4-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">C\u00e9lia Gery (FDJ United-SUEZ) leads the race on the Taaienberg during the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:05:30+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:05:30.043Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-39d3a8a8-0ee3-42c3-9794-6d7a07b8ee80\">There&#8217;ll be no rest but there is time for riders to catch their breath before the next climb.<br \/>The Oude Kruisberg\/Hotond comes with 27km to go and is an odd one. The Kruisberg is cobbled and narrow, while the Hotond is just a tarmacced and wide continuation, dragging on and on.<br \/>In total it&#8217;s 2.7km avarage of 4.1%, but harder than it sounds.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-30km-to-go\"><span>30km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T15:01:32+00:00\">2026-04-05T15:01:32.751Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-39b911be-c634-43e7-9d9a-bf84193082a4\">I spoke too soon, Bredewold is back to help Kopecky, but FDJ are keeping the pace incredibly high.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:58:52+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:58:52.824Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d297c9db-6006-45c8-8d5a-bbed0584891a\">Chabbey leads her FDJ team onto the cobbles, while riders are dropping. Pfeiffer Georgi (Pinic-PostNL) and Mischa Bredewold (SD Worx) are the first two to go, while Millie Couzens (Fenix-Premier Tech) is also distanced.<br \/>As defending champion, Kopecky is now isloated in the leading group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:55:41+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:55:41.659Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ffef1782-d275-41c5-a7c9-c5f20de111a0\">Taaienberg is the next climb. Another cobbled berg it&#8217;s a tough climb, though a tailwind will make it slightly easier. Expect more attacks here, FDJ have number is this group and will look to thin it down.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:51:59+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:51:59.650Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-396ce84b-b7ba-4e9f-a846-a09a6afcaead\">FDJ are in control on the cobbles of the Maria Borrestraat, but the leading group comprises around 20 women, with plenty of teams represented.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-40km\"><span>40km<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:47:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:47:53.710Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-707cde09-14f3-435a-82ce-b1c3797630cd\">Vollering and Koch lead over the top, but she has a large group with her. They include Elisa Longo Borghini andZoe Backstedt (UAE) Letizia Paternoster (Liv-Alula-JAyco), Kopecky, Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot (Visma-Lease a Bike) and others.<br \/>They being chased but will the pursuers get back on before the Taaienberg?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:43:44+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:43:44.198Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5a8a2669-ac22-46fb-a23d-6f74fd813aa6\">On the climb and Franziska Koch (FDJ Untied SUEZ) is doing her thing and leading for Vollering. You can lose so much time here you&#8217;ll never see the front of the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:41:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:41:53.060Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-beb6eaab-f5c8-472f-8cae-f2942e19eb79\">There&#8217;s a real fight to be close to the front four this climb, with it so hard and set to cause riders so many problems, it&#8217;s vital for the favourites to be at the front.<br \/>Kolesava leads by 35 seconds.<br \/>There&#8217;s been a sickening crash in the lead in, with Reusser affected, among others.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:38:04+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:38:04.201Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-deeef178-dd78-4727-85ec-48912302dfc4\">Don&#8217;t expect Kolesava to survive the Koppenberg, it&#8217;s brutal and invites attacks.<br \/>The cobbles alone are some of the toughest of the day and while it&#8217;s only 600m, it averages 11.6%, though it&#8217;s steepest ramp is 22%. It&#8217;s very narrow too.<br \/>Let&#8217;s hope it&#8217;s dry now as riders will be walking. If you stop you&#8217;ll really struggle to remount.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:35:34+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:35:34.219Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-25158046-0b6f-4b69-8333-8d905e38fac1\">Kolesava leads the peloton by only 42 seconds heading on the flat road to the base of the Koppenberg.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-50km-to-go\"><span>50km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:34:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:34:26.183Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-21eb3967-b2f5-41d0-925f-6b331f752a29\">The climb made its mark on the breakaway too, with Kolesava alone at the front. It&#8217;s a hugely brave ride from the Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto rider who was struggling earlier in the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:32:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:32:38.585Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fcd479ab-fa53-41e7-86bc-0e913258770a\">The Eikenberg has made its mark. Not only is the breakaway&#8217;s advantage down, the peloton is scrambling to stay together, a number of riders dropped under the pressure of FDJ United-SUEZ and their Swiss rider, Elise Chabbey.<br \/>Her leader Demi Vollering moves to the front. We&#8217;re racing for position on the Koppenberg now.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:29:43+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:29:43.383Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-42274ab3-f86b-4f1a-bd7d-d45dd313a591\">A nasty looking crash for Brodie Chapman (UAE Team ADQ), she&#8217;s one of er team&#8217;s strongest engines and is unlikely to rejoin the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:28:04+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:28:04.361Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ae73188e-b112-4219-9980-1e6b1d7e69ba\">Onto the Eikenberg.<br \/>It&#8217;s yet another cobbled climb, 1200m long and 5.2% average gradient, though it ramps up to 10%.<br \/>Wrezin, Kolesava, Beekhuis and Von Berswordt lead by 1.32.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:25:06+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:25:06.529Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-becb939f-e1f7-4441-bc9a-b1fb06be15f1\">The climbs and cobbles come thick and fast now. Next up is the Eikenberg which comes at 52.5km to go. It signals the beginning of the end, with the Koppenberg coming soon after and a series of tough challenges where the race will be made.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:24:01+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:24:01.553Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-836f3f52-c61d-4682-ad2c-f7d4106873ae\">Marlen Reusser&#8217;s attack on the Molenberg put the cat among the pigeons and will have hurt plenty of her rivals, even if the race came back together.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-eef60227-4ef3-4e0b-95a2-9ddb2c987ef8\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k9bDWZDb2jobzZWDg5UBR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Marlen Reusser (Movistar) attacks on the Molenberg during the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:18:02+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:18:02.861Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8eb10792-4008-4498-89f5-679018957cee\">The race has eased slightly. Some attacks are coming from what is a large bunch, but they&#8217;re being closed down as the breakaway&#8217;s lead has settled around the two minute mark.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-60km-remaining\"><span>60km remaining <\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:11:15+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:11:15.699Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-7c9a3045-08dd-4dee-84fd-4260447222e8\">With the gap under two minutes and the wind howling across the open fields, some riders are looking to attack, but nothing is sticking<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:07:56+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:07:56.625Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4894a496-e266-4e31-b40f-4a819958a7b0\">Not only do you need to be strong in Flanders, but you also need to be switched on at all times. Position and course knowledge are so important. <br \/>Next up is the tarmacced Marlboroughstraat.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:05:08+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:05:08.799Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9f0bd3f5-7a41-4d4b-b700-30543e54bf04\">Reusser&#8217;s move threatened to split the race and a small group did form, though the race has re-formed as they stream over the open fields at the top.<br \/>The gap is only 2.10 though!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:03:20+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:03:20.225Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9f46902e-d905-4b38-8f74-edd4e2ea8cce\">The break is over the Molenberg, but the bunch is frantic, fighting for the tight turn into the bottom. After winning Dwars Door Vlaanderen in midweek, Marlen Reusser led onto the cobbles and is flying!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T14:01:30+00:00\">2026-04-05T14:01:30.400Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9e32fbdd-2b88-4345-a5fe-04cf2038e931\">The MOlenberg is 463m at and average gradient of 7%. It&#8217;s cobbled and brutal. Kolesava is making light work of it though, gliding over the stones.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:59:43+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:59:43.517Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0f03e7f9-2812-4e7f-9de6-adc1fe3c8c93\">The pace is frighteningly fast in the peloton now, it will be important to be at or near the front when they hit the Molenberg. It&#8217;s a cliche, but there are so many points on the Flanders course where the race can be lost.<br \/>The lead for Wrezin, Kolesava, Beekhuis and Von Berswordt is now only 2.50.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-70km-to-go\"><span>70km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:57:04+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:57:04.916Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d4feb74a-7b4c-41d3-ad37-156acb119b0c\">The breakaway worked well throughout the day, but the pace is up and they&#8217;re slipping back one by one.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-41716379-09fc-4326-be72-1a074cc18f61\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CnrV7VP4gze6jZ7ardyTrF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:54:49+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:54:49.704Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-bd75bebb-8a90-4844-9d70-0ab3ef8ddcb9\">More cobbles! It&#8217;s relentless! It&#8217;s Jagerij now. This one&#8217;s flat and only 600m, but the tough gets going very soon, with the Molenberg only just up the road.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:51:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:51:53.505Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5b54043f-77d1-417f-97ba-781dd19b340a\">Yonna van Dam was in the breakaway at In Flanders Fields last week, but has just been dropped from the leading group. Mrugal is slipping back too, so now only Wrezin, Kolesava, Beekhuis and Von Berswordt are at the front, 4 minutes ahead of the bunch.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:49:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:49:26.020Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2435beac-e78e-4854-8ed1-602a1249cd7e\">The leaders are on cobbled sector number four, Kerkgate is 1400m in length but is very slightly uphill, quite unpleasant!<br \/>In the bunch Visma-Lease a Bike, UAE Team ADQ and SD Worx are doing the work. Movistar have been up there, but one of their key strongwomen, Aude Biannic just suffered a small crash.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:43:24+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:43:24.415Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ff81f825-010b-4ce8-89b1-1f17c2a922b1\">The leading group are over the Wolvenberg now, while the bunch have just ridden out of Oudenaarde with the gap coming down again.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Wrezin, Van Dam, Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt lead by 4.30.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-80km-to-race\"><span>80km to race<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:39:38+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:39:38.816Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-530400a6-ae5e-4e52-94b4-eb790b30c2d8\">One of the many complications of racing in Belgium is the road furniture and it&#8217;s caused a huge crash in the peloton, a number of riders coming down after someone hit a partition bollard.<br \/>Former French champion, Victoire Berteau (Cofidis) is one of those affected.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:36:45+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:36:45.652Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-28e2c5af-290c-41b9-bca4-9a1ec595b811\">The breakaway are now heading through the start and finish town of Oudenaarde before the first climb, the Wolvenberg, just outside town.<br \/>We&#8217;re now getting into the meat of the race and the peloton will need to take some time out of the leaders.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:32:20+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:32:20.234Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-70992ae0-698a-4e32-a08d-5ae4f000b78e\">As we mentioned earlier, thawing is blowing very hard out there and now it&#8217;s in the face of the riders the pace has really dropped, which is why the gap has grown so much.<br \/>Over six minutes now, such a gap is not a common thing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:28:16+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:28:16.840Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-68632754-181a-4987-877f-c06b4e4066db\">All change at the front now.<br \/>Wrezin, Van Dam, Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt now lead the peloton by well over five minutes, while Blanco, Seynave have been dropped by the break.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-90km-to-go\"><span>90km to go <\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:25:28+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:25:28.493Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-722807a3-42c0-4297-9265-b06d81aab10a\"><strong>Enjoying our live race coverage? Subscribe to Cyclingnews for an all-access pass to our unrivalled reporting of WorldTour racing, bike tech and exclusive in-depth features. Plus, access to the Cyclingnews app to follow the action on-the-go! <\/strong><u><strong>Find out more.<\/strong><\/u><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:23:57+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:23:57.134Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2c087f66-1305-4d49-ad90-b8888c1eb2e3\">As a three time winner Lotte Kopecky started today as one of the favourites. <br \/>Bad luck meant she had a slightly rocky start to the season, but she\u2019s had two big wins so far.<br \/><strong>First she won at at Nokere Koerse<\/strong> then<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>days later she won a gripping Milan-Sanremo<\/strong><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-09e1265a-68f6-48dd-ae40-8e5b04fff9b9\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8huBWpMPZZojhDrJZHJWdU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx-Protime) wins the 2026 edition of Milan-Sanremo Women. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:16:44+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:16:44.844Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8b68bc7e-a696-4190-92cd-123395258332\">The day&#8217;s first climb is not too far away now, so expect the peloton to become increasingly interested and increasingly quick.<br \/>It&#8217;s the Wolvenberg, which starats with 82km to go. It&#8217;s not a cobbled climb, but it has a maximum gradient of 17%!<br \/>It&#8217;s only short though, 645m averaging 7.9%.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:13:42+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:13:42.863Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f9ac0a23-04c5-4a28-90ed-7c049a92ec70\">After the Lippenhovenstraat and Paddestraat one-two the gap is coming down as predicted, the peloton are now only 3.41 down. <br \/>We&#8217;re told the leading quartet is Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt, <strong>NOT<\/strong> Blanco, Seynave, Wrezin and Van Dam, who are the secnd group, still just over 30 seconds down.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-100km-to-go\"><span>100km to go!<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:08:37+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:08:37.062Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-260e5965-aa86-4b47-8056-81cff66e5b20\">Paddestraat now! This one is slightly longer and slightly down hill and clearly not the favourite place for Kolesava, who&#8217;s struggling to hold on.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:05:00+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:05:00.216Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a1ec2a98-2271-490f-a4e7-7954329d0707\">Onto the Lipphovenstraat! It&#8217;s flat and about 1300m in length.<br \/>The peloton are now 4.08 behind the leaders.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T13:02:11+00:00\">2026-04-05T13:02:11.216Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c5a1ec5c-2423-4cd2-add0-2eb7e1b597eb\">The cobbled Lipphovenstraat is coming in the next few kilometres, by the end of that and the Paddestraat there&#8217;s little down our two groups will still be leading, but we could see their advantage beginning to drop as the fight for position comes in the peloton.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-a5f45e41-228f-4fdd-9d49-4f40d8c9029b\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6ozangLpdVEzLJGoLx8ysV-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:54:49+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:54:49.767Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-cea71360-5b71-4e91-99fa-ebe6e9ca6ba6\">As it stands Blanco, Seynave, Wrezin and Van Dam continue to lead <br \/>Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt by 35 seconds.<br \/>Meanwhile the peloton has really let the gap grow out and they now trail the leaders by 4.35!<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-110km-left-to-race\"><span>110km left to race<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:51:28+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:51:28.701Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d99a33f6-2d60-402b-b30b-888f3d944e9c\">American and Olympic champion Kristen Faulkner is racing in Europe for the first time this season.<br \/><strong>She&#8217;s hopes her EF Education-Oatly team can get a result today by being &#8220;a little sneaky.&#8221;<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-15bc0b76-43e3-476b-9722-89794407a9e0\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aLux8RU8e2UEgq7KVf8LGa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:46:14+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:46:14.791Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8812a571-4611-4cd1-8028-0d71a6b7abd8\">This race and the sport at this time of year are known for cobbles and the Lange Munte was today&#8217;s first stretch for the peloton.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-10ffbd87-cc06-406c-ab3d-89b9bd24b438\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GufjspDNrzA9ymFCS8zehE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">The peloton tackle the cobbles of the Lange Munte during the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:42:49+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:42:49.300Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2ec53c23-0366-4cdc-ba74-d9902f26e204\">We&#8217;re getting reports of a crash for Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx-Protime). She&#8217;s back up and in the bunch, but almost every crash hurts so this could affect the team&#8217;s strategy, though of course, they still have Lotte Kopecky.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:37:58+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:37:58.186Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ece508ac-a609-4b6a-bbb6-aab9bc6db245\">A weather update for you, the wind remains at almost 30km\/h from the west. this is plenty strong enough to affect the race, but the route is such that you never go in one direction long enough for echelons to really break the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:33:10+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:33:10.121Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d1c9dbc1-847a-45ed-b7bb-f875044d9cf5\">Our two breakaway groups remain 35 seconds apart, while the peloton are now 2.20 behind the front of the race.<br \/>We have two breakaways!<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-125km-to-go\"><span>125km to go<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:29:19+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:29:19.525Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e2db8c2e-d09a-4495-9262-7668d4d3f05f\">The next obstacle for the race is the one-two cobbled sectors of Lipphovenstraat and Paddestraat. The first of those comes after 59.7km, so we have a way to go just yet.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:25:35+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:25:35.003Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e7eec256-5569-4ecd-b44d-abaa3654830a\">With the Lange Munte behind us Blanco, Seynave, Wrezin and Van Dam (Citymech-Customm) lead the second group of <br \/>Kolesava, Beekhuis, Mrugal and Von Berswordt by 35 seconds with the peloton a further minute behind.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:21:58+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:21:58.856Z<\/time><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-off-the-first-cobbles\"><span>Off the first cobbles<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:21:33+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:21:33.151Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ba87daf4-3d54-4e3f-9230-b6e7c564e916\">We have two groups off the front.<br \/>Iurani Blanco (Human Powered Health)<br \/>Ilken Seynave (Lotto-Intermarch\u00e9)<br \/>Caroline Wrezin (St Michel-Preference Home-Auber93)<br \/>Yonna van Dam (Citymech-Customm)<br \/>lead the buch by 10 seconds while <br \/>Anastasiya Kolesava (Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto)<br \/>Teuntje Beekhuis (UNO-X Mobility)<br \/>Alison Mrugal (Mayenne-Monbana-My Pie)<br \/>Sophie von Berswordt (VolkerWessels)<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">are in-between the two. This is nowhere near a done deal!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:18:34+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:18:34.403Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-dfc8047f-c423-42f2-a46d-1ae3e61b2aeb\">There&#8217;s a confused picture from the race at the moment, though we&#8217;re sure four women lead with a small gap.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-30km-raced\"><span>30km raced<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:10:21+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:10:21.978Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e2e7122d-fb2d-4449-9214-6f595726bed1\">Our leading group is comprised of:<br \/>Anastasiya Kolesava (Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto)<br \/>Teuntje Beekhuis (UNO-X Mobility)<br \/>Alison Mrugal (Mayenne-Monbana-My Pie)<br \/>Sophie von Berswordt (VolkerWessels)<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">only have the slimmest of gaps and the cobbles begin soon, can they build their lead or will they be caught in the fight for position?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:04:58+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:04:58.464Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f58f1781-1a39-4dbb-a6dc-bff12875e1f4\">We&#8217;ve had a few moves off the front but only now has anything stuck, we have four women with a small gap.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-20km-raced\"><span>20km raced!<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T12:01:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T12:01:53.871Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ea65b680-7929-42a4-a980-2d88f74fc946\">Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot is one of the superstars of cycle sport, with world titles across the disciplines.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>She was second at the Tour of Flanders last year and she knows she and her Visma-Lease a Bike team can win today. <\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-aa95d8a4-de01-4496-972f-b13a56f3ae66\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qixjpw9jRzhNUWhLGW5nM6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:55:40+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:55:40.971Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-23be40e9-4d66-4ba6-83b4-9b9b387425a2\">The first of six cobbled sectors is the Lange Munte which comes after 29.3km. There are nine climbs too, the Wolvenberg, which opens the climbing after 82km, is one of only two bergs which is on tarmac, making the remaining seven very challenging indeed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:51:12+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:51:12.917Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b1186d06-dad9-4ecd-8506-d9b80e168752\">Despite plenty of attacking at the front of the race, the peloton is still together.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-154km-left-to-race\"><span>154km left to race<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:50:09+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:50:09.938Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-af0030b6-02c2-43b8-a2b9-09186d71d7a8\">Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx-Protime) has proved herself over and again as not only the best sprinter but one of the world\u2019s best riders. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Even if she doesn\u2019t win today she can still have an influence on the race, she thinks so, saying &#8220;I can give others some pressure.&#8221; <\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-8130eefa-de5c-44e8-8da7-496dbaed8a5d\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FWkd5ShkCYkZzp6M6QevfQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx-Protime) before the 2026 edition of the Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:43:37+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:43:37.666Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-72413a27-08e8-4da0-a680-1a924408b162\">The fight is already on for the breakaway!<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-8987a25e-3317-4e4a-979f-a34676a7ee94\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UhCdHmUfP4RmcNFZdGnLST-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">American rider Heidi Franz (St Michel &#8211; Preference Home) attacks the front of the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:38:26+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:38:26.304Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0e664c82-b03d-4592-8249-b84d2c049773\">As for the weather, it&#8217;s reasonably warm, with highs of 12\u00baC some light rain and high winds up to almost 30k\/mh. That&#8217;ll be a tailwind on the final few kilometres, ideal for a breakaway.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:35:59+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:35:59.609Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b8648e78-876a-418d-8a46-845b98f63469\">The race is on!<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-164-1km-to-go\"><span>164.1km to go!<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:31:29+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:31:29.432Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9a7224cc-5581-4ee6-8601-3990b1324045\">One woman who could have a major influence on today&#8217;s race is Franziska Koch, the German champion who moved to FDJ United-SUEZ this year to support Demi Vollering.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><strong>Is Franziska Koch the best signing of the year?<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-abb56466-fb98-43ad-8005-cb933b3cf792\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QgEFvhNoJQigusimGSus2e-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">German champion Franziska Koch (FDJ United-SUEZ) during the 2026 Dwars Door Vlaanderen <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:28:37+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:28:37.748Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-44686fa6-5902-4768-af25-ef896f089acc\">While the first edition of the race in 2004, won by Zulfiya Zabirova, covered only 94km, this year we\u2019ve got 164.1km, with plenty of cobbles and bergs on the menu.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:26:29+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:26:29.226Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b8aa258d-516b-4b34-97cb-e33ff8e04922\">Here we go! We\u2019re rolling for 2.9km of neutral, riding out through Bevere before we finally get racing!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:23:53+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:23:53.628Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ac77570d-ae1b-434b-bed3-6c13d11e91da\">Kopecky might be the the record winner, but when she took her first title back in 2022 she was only the second Belgian to win the country\u2019s most iconic race, with Grace Verbeke taking the honours way back in 2010.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:22:24+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:22:24.884Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fd8aded4-ab04-43af-bf77-861b93d9dc6b\">Double winners include Mirjam Melchers, Judith Arndt, Annemiek van Vleuten and Elisa Longo Borghini (UAE Team ADQ), but only one woman has won three editions: Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx-Protime). <\/p>\n<p><strong>Tour of Flanders Women: Lotte Kopecky makes history with record third victory. <\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-e33f62db-3230-41af-996f-d0e1e1d00dfe\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HUAhPhohWj5CCKDxT4NfQo-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:16:23+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:16:23.467Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1d3df261-8c9f-4537-8826-a70f8d1e77fd\">The Tour of Flanders is one of the most coveted races each season and some of the biggest names of the sport have won over the years. Nicole Cooke, Ina Yoko Teutenberg, Marianne Vos, Coryn Labecki, Lizzie Deignan and Ellen van Dijk all grace the race palmar\u00e8s.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:09:55+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:09:55.353Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c3da0760-ae0c-41dc-8b4f-aeee4e00ef65\">Though Milan Sanremo was the first of the men\u2019s Monuments to host a women\u2019s race, way back in 1999, that only ran until 2005, by which time De Ronde women\u2019s race was in its second edition.<br \/>While Sanremo disappeared for 20 years, Flanders has run continually since its inception, making it the longest running of all women\u2019s Monuments.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">This is the 23rd edition.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T11:00:22+00:00\">2026-04-05T11:00:22.726Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b87d8b6e-9c3c-4074-8bc7-ad7c1bdbac82\">Our most recent winner in these spring Classics was Movistar&#8217;s Marlen Reusser, the Swiss rider winning an enthralling edition of Dwars Door Vlaanderen.<br \/>How did she do it? <strong>Our report is here.<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-59d9ab2f-db1e-4771-b95c-04a55c7870da\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Marlen Reusser (Movistar) wins the 2026 edition of Dwars Door Vlaanderen <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T10:50:28+00:00\">2026-04-05T10:50:28.206Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f70711f1-28a8-429c-b9f9-379f78c31e37\">Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx-Protime) is only one of more than 130 women on the start line today and though she\u2019s in flying form with wins at Nokere Koerse and Milan-Sanremo, there are plenty of others hoping for success.<br \/><strong>Our preview is here.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T10:42:56+00:00\">2026-04-05T10:42:56.354Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4c164513-0e47-4be2-ad62-6e4a628443b3\">We\u2019re in what has become the race\u2019s spiritual home of Oudenaarde for the start this year. We roll out for 2.9km of neutral at 13:25 (local time) before the winner crosses the line back in Oudenaarde after 164.1km of what\u2019s sure to be frantic racing.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-0762b18d-9200-4009-9455-78ca283fe974\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ew85EwM8pBvBnPZMauzdn5-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Demi Vollering is interviewed as her FDJ United-SUEZ team sign on for the 2026 Tour of Flanders Women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\"><time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-05T10:38:20+00:00\">2026-04-05T10:38:20.420Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-771e56e2-6480-4930-87ca-a3f5bde56465\">Good afternoon and welcome to our live coverage of this year\u2019s Tour of Flanders Women Elite. Always one of the most exiting, fascinating, entertaining and keenly anticipated races of the season!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mt-6 lg:px-0 relative max-w-[1070px] mx-auto viafoura-twig-component px-4\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class='vfcustom-community-guidelines'&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/live\/tour-of-flanders-women-live-can-lotte-kopecky-extend-her-winning-record-or-will-someone-else-take-belgiums-most-iconic-race\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/48G7Ub9epDscFwryKc93Na-1024-80.jpg&#8221;] Pro Cycling Racing Women&#8217;s Cycling Road Tour of Flanders Women As it happened: The race is made with the Oude Kwaremont producing the winner of the Tour of Flanders Women A solo move after 164km packed full of cobbles and climbs on the menu in Belgium&#8217;s biggest day. Live-reports By Owen Rogers [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,68],"class_list":["post-1867051","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1867051","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1867051"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1867051\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1867051"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1867051"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1867051"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}