{"id":230843,"date":"2026-02-28T17:49:40","date_gmt":"2026-02-28T17:49:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2026\/02\/28\/as-it-happened-order-is-restored-as-the-kapelmuur-bosberg-duo-make-the-difference-at-omloop-het-nieuwsblad\/"},"modified":"2026-02-28T17:49:40","modified_gmt":"2026-02-28T17:49:40","slug":"as-it-happened-order-is-restored-as-the-kapelmuur-bosberg-duo-make-the-difference-at-omloop-het-nieuwsblad","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2026\/02\/28\/as-it-happened-order-is-restored-as-the-kapelmuur-bosberg-duo-make-the-difference-at-omloop-het-nieuwsblad\/","title":{"rendered":"As it happened: Order is restored as the Kapelmuur-Bosberg duo make the difference at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><\/p>\n<div id=\"article-body\">\n<p>Refresh <i class=\"fa fa-refresh\"\/><\/p>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T17:49:40+00:00\">2026-02-28T17:49:40.803Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"587cb21b-d24a-4df8-8c32-7578b59b8976\">You can read our full race report here.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/womens-cycling\/omloop-het-nieuwsblad-fierce-fight-between-demi-vollering-vs-kasia-niewiadoma-phinney-ends-in-a-maiden-victory-for-european-champion\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/womens-cycling\/omloop-het-nieuwsblad-fierce-fight-between-demi-vollering-vs-kasia-niewiadoma-phinney-ends-in-a-maiden-victory-for-european-champion\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Omloop Het Nieuwsblad: Fierce fight between Demi Vollering vs Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney ends in a maiden victory for European champion.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T17:39:33+00:00\">2026-02-28T17:39:33.225Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"3299fd85-4c26-44e1-b4e5-4bc009b256eb\">There&#8217;s no Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne for women, but Opening Weekend continues with Omloop van het Hageland. A third tier, 1.1 race, most of the WorldTeams will field changed rosters and we&#8217;ll get to see some of the smaller Continental Teams take part.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T17:35:04+00:00\">2026-02-28T17:35:04.175Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"eabeb0f1-5c0d-4292-b926-e0811564a761\">Another notable ride was that of Nina Berton (EF Education-Oatly) who followed Chabbey&#8217;s move then held onto the chasing group to take an excellent 9th place. <br \/>The 24-year-old Luxembourger has been highly rated for a while and is developing well, expect to see more of her in the Classics.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T17:21:58+00:00\">2026-02-28T17:21:58.774Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"4c4fc3dc-2714-4d2f-a0bd-0d4101fe8d33\">Elise Chabbey (FDJ United-SUEZ) attacks to form the late breakaway which proved so vital to the team&#8217;s tactical plan.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"8db50f0a-6ffb-4bf7-b944-c31b6103722d\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/M2ntUhjRHnQszmmbF232Gg-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/M2ntUhjRHnQszmmbF232Gg-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/M2ntUhjRHnQszmmbF232Gg-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/M2ntUhjRHnQszmmbF232Gg-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/M2ntUhjRHnQszmmbF232Gg-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/M2ntUhjRHnQszmmbF232Gg-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T17:17:44+00:00\">2026-02-28T17:17:44.975Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"bd958e54-2b52-473d-8ab2-10174b8e5345\">People have grown used to SD Worx-Protime dominating the Classics, but times have changed. Anna van der Breggen doesn&#8217;t have the punch to follow on the Muur, while Wiebes isn&#8217;t yet enough of a climber.<br \/>Kopecky may have the attributes to challenge the Vollering move, but bad luck put her out of contention in only her first race of 2026. We&#8217;ll see how that develops as the season progresses.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T17:13:43+00:00\">2026-02-28T17:13:43.789Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"d74ca0b1-0170-4f94-be9b-d19bb8e599b4\">Behind Vollering, FDJ United-SUEZ executed a perfect race, placing Franziska Koch, Juliette Berthet and Elise Chabbey in the top 15.<br \/>Their tactics were spot on, Chabbey instigating the late break and Koch&#8217;s powerful move dropping Vollering in the perfect position to take the win.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T17:08:46+00:00\">2026-02-28T17:08:46.688Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"59f36fb2-33b5-4eed-bc2d-98d2410b28e5\">Only 19-years-old, Cat Ferguson (Movistar) was riding her first Omloop Het Nieuwsblad first, so will be encouraged by her fourth place. Finishing behind Wiebes in the sprint is no shame, and being able to compete in the final at such a young age is an achievement in itself.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T17:02:55+00:00\">2026-02-28T17:02:55.845Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"6819f80a-8f9e-4908-a9c8-e688ed2ce31d\">One of the riders expected to be at the sharp end of the race was Lotte 2023 winner, Lotte Kopecky. However, a damaged bike saw her out of contention before the race reached the Muur.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T17:00:40+00:00\">2026-02-28T17:00:40.837Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"cab6105e-cb19-4ae3-8da9-26b6a5e26d31\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg.jpg\" alt=\"NIVONE, BELGIUM - FEBRUARY 28: (L-R) Kasia Niewiadoma of Poland and Team Canyon-SRAM and Demi Vollering of Netherlands and Team FDJ United - SUEZ compete in the breakaway passing through the Muur - Kapelmuur cobblestones sector during the 21st Omloop Het Nieuwsblad 2026, Women&amp;#039;s Elite a 137.2km one day race from Ghent to Ninove \/ #UCIWWT \/ on February 28, 2026 in Ninove, Belgium. (Photo by Luc Claessen\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fXKCPLEqT6rRjirh7xDbjg.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Demi Vollering (FDJ United-SUEZ) and Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney) making the race winning move on the Muur-Kapelmuur <\/span><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:55:25+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:55:25.255Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"34fc55ec-b6b2-44b5-a4b9-2a562c90c503\">&#8220;It feels good, it was really nice to finish it off here today. I thought that I would do it, but still to do it makes me proud,&#8221; Vollering continued.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:52:22+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:52:22.992Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"60143be2-6bfb-4d06-82d8-56dc81f3cdd7\">&#8220;On the Muur it was the plan to do full gas,&#8221; said Vollering. &#8220;In the end we were a bit stuck&#8230; but then Franzi [Koch] came from the back and she did the first part of the Muur perfectly.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:50:25+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:50:25.830Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"120923cb-beba-4234-8bde-50b4074cdba8\">After least year&#8217;s aberration, the Kaplemuur-Bosberg one-two proved decisive. the winning move came there after which the strongest and smartest won.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:44:06+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:44:06.623Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-vollering-takes-the-victory\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-vollering-takes-the-victory\"><span>Vollering takes the victory<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:24:05+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:24:05.815Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"40855585-71ca-414b-ac71-1c841261cd62\">A group of eight comes in fighting for second place, but Dutch champion, Wiebes is way too strong, easily winning the sprint for the final podium place.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:22:14+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:22:14.674Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"94d3b97d-a3f9-4168-ae11-18b53d19cf93\">Vollering flicks the elbow at 500m but Niewiadoma doesn&#8217;t fall for it and stays on the wheel. Vollering is too strong though, sprinting from the front to take the win.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:20:50+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:20:50.325Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"f1e235f8-3672-41f2-8f08-0d6034254786\">It&#8217;s the <em>flamme rouge<\/em> for the final kilometre, Niewiadoma-Phinney comes through to the front, but Vollering leads out now.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:19:08+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:19:08.014Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"60bb32ba-afc0-41a4-8665-e3e88ca9e176\">Just 2km now and the gap might be below 40 seconds but the two leaders are too good. There is some chat between Vollering and Niewiadoma-Phinney, but they unlikely to be caught. <br \/>The Polish champion looks like she&#8217;s struggling though.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:17:24+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:17:24.493Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"48042a9c-4276-4735-a0cb-583425f9f8dd\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR.jpg\" alt=\"NIVONE, BELGIUM - FEBRUARY 28: (L-R) Kasia Niewiadoma of Poland and Team Canyon-SRAM and Demi Vollering of Netherlands and Team FDJ United - SUEZ compete in the breakaway during the 21st Omloop Het Nieuwsblad 2026, Women&amp;amp;amp;apos;s Elite a 137.2km one day race from Ghent to Ninove \/ #UCIWWT \/ on February 28, 2026 in Ninove, Belgium. (Photo by Luc Claessen\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rohnZtFPDgMokJS2FDxkLR.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney (Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto) and Demi Vollering (FDJ United-SUEZ) on the Bosberg. <\/span><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:15:12+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:15:12.461Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"01a5e559-30f2-45e4-85f1-1642d57c2e87\">5km to go. Vollering and Niewiadoma-Phinney have settled into their work. The chasing group are holding station, neither dropping back or closing in, this could be a done deal.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:12:58+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:12:58.639Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"bdf503a5-d2a5-44dd-90ce-9c8b6db086f7\">We now have 8km to go and the gap is down, though only by a couple of seconds. The chasing group has some big engines in there, but there are some fast women too, with Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx), Cat Ferguson (Movistar) and Shari Bossuyt (AG Insurance-Soudal) all present.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:10:14+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:10:14.654Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"26e083b2-e838-49b2-bf7f-34f6372446b6\">10km to go.<br \/>Vollering and Niewiadoma-Phinney are two of the best riders of this generation, they&#8217;ve both won the Tour de France Femes avec Zwift, it&#8217;ll be very hard for the chasers to bring back a 50 second lead, even if Van der Breggen is back leading the pusuit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:07:55+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:07:55.152Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"8af2e121-dd04-46c5-aa5c-c65ea426a809\">Over the Bosberg and now Vollering and Niewiadoma-Phinney lead the chasers by a massive 40 seconds, with a tailwind to take them most of the way home. Van der Breggen&#8217;s effort is finished.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:06:28+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:06:28.326Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"fb0e3588-8a39-4351-a74a-eb76ee1905ae\">Just as the road tips upwards ahead of the Bosberg the chasing group are caught by the Van der Breggen group. 11km to go now and the leaders are working hard on the cobbles of this deceptively tough climb.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:04:55+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:04:55.112Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"8ad10e72-8392-4c0c-8a77-49d2e04b4a2c\">As we approach the Bosberg, the second group is being caught by another, slightly larger group, including SD Worx riders Lorena Wiebes and Anna van der Breggen.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:03:26+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:03:26.404Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"2178ed60-8cc8-472d-bdde-085ecfca8168\">At the front Vollering is with Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney (Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto) with a small lead on a group of five.<br \/>That&#8217;s a powerful leading duo, but there may well be some sort of regrouping.<br \/>Just 15km to go though.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T16:00:45+00:00\">2026-02-28T16:00:45.915Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"70006595-99b3-466e-b51f-6df34a0fefab\">The leaders are caught by Koch&#8217;s group. They have Chabbey in there too. There&#8217;s only a small group at the front now, Vollering attacking on the steepest, roughest part.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:59:23+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:59:23.906Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"79ea0c89-519d-46c0-821b-947a1cd46431\">Through the centre of town and with the gap below 15 seconds and FDJ take to the front, German champions Franziska Koch putting in a huge effort with European champion and team mate Demi Vollering on her wheel.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:57:57+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:57:57.314Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-the-final-part-of-the-race-begins\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-the-final-part-of-the-race-begins\"><span>The final part of the race begins.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:57:32+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:57:32.012Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"b1798997-fe73-4281-a492-d02a8fb5e203\">The leaders have 30 seconds as they cross the river bridge in the centre of Geraardsbergen. There will be action.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:56:51+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:56:51.032Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"8c68a773-1ac9-453a-aa11-65a805ac2374\">The crash was made worse by the wet roads, a touch of wheels taking down one rider and the chain reaction catching many others.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:55:48+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:55:48.769Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"d5bf73d6-24f6-4791-8bfc-d41b5c00ff25\">20km to go and Gasparrini, Aaseb\u00f8, Chabbey and Berton continue to lead, their advantage stable at 35 seconds. There&#8217;s be a huge crash though, maybe 20 women affected.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:54:09+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:54:09.011Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"b606969f-f4f0-4453-b40a-800786f21b04\">Muur-Kapelmuur is a beast. After a long descent into the centre of Geraardsbergen, it climbs from the river in the middle of town. The cobbled part isn\u2019t even half its distance. It\u2019s always decisive, the top coming just over 15km from the finish in Ninove.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:51:39+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:51:39.278Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"ed9043f1-4f65-4c3e-a820-8ff86a0ea242\">Over the Parikeberg, the approach to Geraardsbergen and its famous Kapelmuur. AG Insurance-Soudal are now helping at the front and the peloton\u2019s deficit is only 35 seconds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:48:26+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:48:26.697Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"b93779e1-0f6e-4fd7-91ba-923c5d9f008f\">Parikeberg is next. Another tarmac climb, it\u2019s 800m, but it\u2019s the gateway to the race\u2019s final and the two signature cobbled climbs.<br \/>The roads are wet, but the sun is out for the final 25km, the gap continues to be eroded.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:44:52+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:44:52.840Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"d7f9d760-af70-4f07-8055-d208e7cc7ff7\">SD Worx-Protime are determined not get caught out like last year, the team are working very hard on the front of the peloton. And it\u2019s working, as they reach Tenbosse the gap is down to 45 seconds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:42:41+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:42:41.031Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"3fb55108-faac-4329-997c-fcf3220e50a7\">At only 19 years old, Aaseb\u00f8 is one of the youngest riders in the race.<br \/>However, her lead, and that of the break is now stable at just under one minute.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:38:08+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:38:08.610Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"ac6a99b9-e706-4691-a163-8d2c7c4d9110\">Tenbosse is the next climb, it\u2019s 500m in length but not too challenging, though this is all a wearing down process ahead of the final two punchy climbs, the Muur-Kapelmuur and Bosberg.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The leaders have 1.05 of an advantage and 31km to go.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:34:17+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:34:17.340Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"447ee8b7-05ab-4263-b0c6-239a73d5bf88\">We\u2019re over the Berendries now, with 33km to go and Gasparrini, Aaseb\u00f8, Chabbey and Berton lead by almost a minute. The bunch seem happy though, all together on the climb.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:31:32+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:31:32.324Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"021faac8-8962-4922-a8a5-142b47580f96\">Approaching the Leberg we have four women off the front, Eleonora Gasparrini (UAE Team ADQ), Elise Chabbey (FDJ United-SUEZ), Nina Berton (EF Education-Oatly) and Kamilla Aaseb\u00f8 (UNO-X Mobility) lead by almost 40 seconds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:24:00+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:24:00.080Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"170c81f1-9f98-4571-a679-43b68142ece4\">Just ahead of the Haaghoek and there are some tentative attacks on the front. One of our pre-race favourites was Movistar\u2019s Liane Lippert, but she\u2019s suffered a mechanical. Any problem now is crucial.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:21:30+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:21:30.868Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"fe83e1df-0499-43ed-a386-738527f6e08a\">Finally, after 95km at the front Fortin and De Grave are caught.<br \/>But this is relentless, after the Molenberg it\u2019s the cobbled Haaghoek sector, with the Leberg and its 13% gradients coming hot on its heels.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:18:04+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:18:04.367Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"68363a2b-a4bf-4185-93f3-8af536b8b9dd\">The Molenberg is very narrow at the bottom, so it\u2019s chaos at the bottom with riders jostling for position ahead of this challenging part of the parcours. but still Fortin and De Grave hold on!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:08:43+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:08:43.852Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"5988a882-c221-49f8-bf0c-950f873834d6\">Over the Jagerij and Fortin and De Grave are clinging on into the final 50km, they lead by 20 seconds, but next up is the Molenberg. Cobbled, this short climb has ramps of 14%.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T15:03:24+00:00\">2026-02-28T15:03:24.129Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"2afdbb98-cd2a-46df-bf27-fb82009a9b1c\">What a ride for both Fortin and De Grave, it\u2019s the first race of the year for both women, but they\u2019re almost caught, taking only 20 seconds onto the cobbled Kerkgate and Jagerij sectors.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:58:11+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:58:11.521Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"70ffff56-0b40-40c0-8e26-a469bfa6b869\">On the Wolvenberg Fortin and De Grave are hanging on, they lead by 20 seconds, but for how long?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:57:19+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:57:19.617Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"c575f3c6-7f2a-402d-99c8-a9753088228e\">Straight after the Holleweg comes the Wolvenberg, at 650m it\u2019s short, but it\u2019s hard, with slopes of 17% gradient.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:55:05+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:55:05.970Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-the-final-60km-cobbles-and-climbs\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-the-final-60km-cobbles-and-climbs\"><span>The final 60km &#8211; cobbles and climbs <\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:53:10+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:53:10.707Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"a68ac787-9381-4e1e-b404-ef3b158617b2\">Over the top De Grave and Fortin have only 20 seconds&#8217; lead, but the Holleweg cobbled sector comes in only 1500m. Here comes the action.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:50:20+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:50:20.677Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"b77090db-4101-44cc-8068-4c0566a2f73f\">On the climb the break has split, De Grave and Fortin forging on alone, though the bunch is closing in.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:46:52+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:46:52.307Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"1a6dcd82-ea03-481c-8e7d-e756d741b9d3\">The Edelareberg is tarmacced, not cobbled, and is just over 1500m in length with an average gradient of 4.2% and a maximum of 7%.<br \/>The lead for Teutenberg, De Grave, Van den Eijnden and Fortin is down to only 43 seconds as we hit the bottom of the climb.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:41:40+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:41:40.074Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"f08c298b-225c-494f-afff-7f0b172b5ef1\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N.jpg\" alt=\"NIVONE, BELGIUM - FEBRUARY 28: A general view of the peloton competing during the 21st Omloop Het Nieuwsblad 2026, Women&amp;#039;s Elite a 137.2km one day race from Ghent to Ninove \/ #UCIWWT \/ on February 28, 2026 in Ninove, Belgium. (Photo by Luc Claessen\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8qoAS2A2HkncSU3bDc3n2N.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Overcast skies, some wind and a little rain, but the weather is yet to stamp its mark on the race <\/span><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:38:02+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:38:02.631Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"155ee3a4-65af-4895-86a8-e5c7f2e024d9\">Last year\u2019s winner Lotte Claes took advantage of a stand off between the bigger teams. None of them wanted to work and the break built a lead of 13 minutes. This year they\u2019ve left less to chance, the breakaway\u2019s maximum lead has only reached 3.30 and it&#8217;s already on the way down.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:33:34+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:33:34.356Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"44017f7e-d619-4aab-acd2-479806fa2937\">We\u2019ve now got 10km until the Edelareberg after which the cobbles and climbs come thick and fast. Unless the favourites\u2019 teams look to each other as they did last year, expect the deficit to the breakaway to start to drop.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:25:58+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:25:58.750Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"dc3302c2-468d-4d79-8d61-8255f3d0292c\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED.jpg\" alt=\"NIVONE, BELGIUM - FEBRUARY 28: Megan Jastrab of United States and UAE Team ADQ competes during the 21st Omloop Het Nieuwsblad 2026, Women&amp;#039;s Elite a 137.2km one day race from Ghent to Ninove \/ #UCIWWT \/ on February 28, 2026 in Ninove, Belgium. (Photo by Luc Claessen\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7Dqpz5nqtjsXkaxVngUoED.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">UAE Team ADQ have a stacked squad for today&#8217;s race, here Megan Jastrab is working for the team. <\/span><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:18:23+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:18:23.021Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"a4d1dcf9-d33a-4354-8d11-368fa835df00\">Since its WorldTour debut in 2023, we\u2019ve had victories from Marianne Vos (Visma-Lease a Bike) and last year the race was won by Lotte Claes, the Belgian emerging from the day&#8217;s breakaway.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:10:22+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:10:22.606Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"67792398-8257-4585-aecd-f8dd657119f4\">With 85km to go Teutenberg, De Grave, Van den Eijnden and Fortin have an increased lead of of 3.15 on the bunch. The race has settled, though not for long.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T14:06:24+00:00\">2026-02-28T14:06:24.267Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"834b7a5d-9d9c-4b6a-b50e-243b067d8699\">After the Edelareberg the race really kicks off, which cobbled sectors and climbs providing a relentless challenge for the bunch. Will the break stay away, or is it one for the big names?<\/p>\n<p><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/womens-cycling\/kopecky-wiebes-vollering-ready-to-battle-after-last-years-upset-analysing-the-omloop-het-nieuwsblad-women-contenders\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/womens-cycling\/kopecky-wiebes-vollering-ready-to-battle-after-last-years-upset-analysing-the-omloop-het-nieuwsblad-women-contenders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Kopecky, Wiebes, Vollering ready to battle after last year&#8217;s upset \u2013 Analysing the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad Women contenders<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:59:56+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:59:56.379Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"be4d0541-7680-47df-b66e-db0de60750ed\">The race rose to 1.Pro in 2021, when Anna van der Breggen (SD Worx-Protime) took the honours, also in the world champion&#8217;s rainbow jersey.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">In 2023 the race finally rose to the top tier of women&#8217;s racing, the UCI Women&#8217;s WorldTour when Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx-Protime) took the win. Kopecky wasn&#8217;t World Champion then, the Belgian winning the first of her titles later that year.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:58:10+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:58:10.144Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"bc68f03c-a82a-4ec9-a970-9339e95834a4\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL.jpg\" alt=\"NIVONE, BELGIUM - FEBRUARY 28: A general view of the peloton competing during the 21st Omloop Het Nieuwsblad 2026, Women&amp;#039;s Elite a 137.2km one day race from Ghent to Ninove \/ #UCIWWT \/ on February 28, 2026 in Ninove, Belgium. (Photo by Luc Claessen\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sWx84Q9wZBzSHwf97LPWTL.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">The peloton on the Lange Munte, the first cobbled sector of the 2026 Omloop Het Nieuwsblad Women Elite <\/span><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:51:47+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:51:47.399Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"075d6ce2-9214-4cbf-a929-95c4d7fd3776\">It\u2019s quite a long way to the next obstacle on the course, the Edelaareberg coming with 75km done. It\u2019s not one of the day\u2019s cobbled climbs, but it might draw out some attackers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:48:27+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:48:27.737Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"6a22327a-89ce-4d3b-aae1-cbdce76d7c2f\">The four leaders have now been allowed their heads, they&#8217;ve completed the Lange Munte with a lead of almost two minutes.<br \/>Lea Lin Teutenberg (Lotto-Intermarch\u00e9 Ladies), Britt de Grave, Jony van den Eijnden (both Citymesh-Customm) and Emilie Fortin (Minimax) make up the day&#8217;s breakaway.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:46:35+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:46:35.475Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"de243d06-cb77-47b4-a00f-2e1570b59ce3\">The race stayed at 1.2 level until 2016 when it was promoted to 1.1, then the second level of women&#8217;s racing. The recently retired Lizzie Deignan (then Armitstead) won the race wearing the World Champion&#8217;s rainbow jersey.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:40:52+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:40:52.793Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-lange-munte-the-season-s-first-cobbles\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-lange-munte-the-season-s-first-cobbles\"><span>Lange Munte &#8211; the season&#8217;s first cobbles<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:38:49+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:38:49.995Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"562f9b2e-db1b-4603-9b47-c896461dab8a\">Lange Munte looks flat, but it\u2019s slightly uphill and, at 2.5km it\u2019ll be a bit of a shock to the system for some. As the break hit the cobbles Alison Avoine (Ma Petite Enterprise) is chasing, but the gap from the leaders to the peloton is less than 30 seconds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:31:22+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:31:22.305Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"6c3e2ae3-5c45-4ab7-abb3-c1c34977cecd\">Nowhere near as old as the men\u2019s race, the first edition was way back in 2006 and was won by Dutch woman Debby Mansveld of the Vlaanderen-Capri Sonne-T-Interim team.<br \/>Back then the race was ranked as a UCI 1.2 event, what was then the third tier of women&#8217;s racing, below the .1 level and World Cup.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:28:01+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:28:01.416Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"46c11ba6-ed64-4dca-b0cf-5a096c1e6255\">And with 10km to go until the Lange Munte, Schweinberger and Latimier are caught and Teutenberg, De Grave, Van den Eijnden and Fortin are only 20 seconds ahead of the bunch, though their gap is growing again.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:20:15+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:20:15.688Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"30d8f13f-e128-4765-9af8-1277f7393784\">After some initial suggestions she wouldn&#8217;t ride, Claes is racing today, wearing the number one <em>dossard<\/em> and leading the Fenix-Premier Tech team she joined over the winter. You can read about the change of strategy below.<\/p>\n<p><strong>&#8216;<\/strong><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/womens-cycling\/reigning-omloop-het-nieuwsblad-champion-lotte-claes-to-defend-her-title-after-all-as-fenix-premier-tech-confirms-her-selection\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/womens-cycling\/reigning-omloop-het-nieuwsblad-champion-lotte-claes-to-defend-her-title-after-all-as-fenix-premier-tech-confirms-her-selection\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>The team\u2019s management ultimately felt it made sense to include her&#8217; \u2013 Lotte Claes will defend her Omloop Het Nieuwsblad title after all.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:18:14+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:18:14.581Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"f6247c27-23e5-44d6-ac3f-c2c87549c3ff\">We now have two riders in pursuit of the leading quartet.<br \/>Kathrin Schweinberger (Human Powered Health) and Cl\u00e9mence Latimier (Ma Petite Enterprise) are 44 seconds behind the break, with the peloton a further 10 seconds back.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:14:59+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:14:59.253Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"344fb301-72c0-43b1-ba2b-3df48e27930a\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK.jpg\" alt=\"GHENT, BELGIUM - FEBRUARY 28: Elisa Balsamo of Italy and Team Lidl - Trek changes her bike prior to the 21st Omloop Het Nieuwsblad 2026, Women&amp;#039;s Elite a 137.2km one day race from Ghent to Ninove \/ #UCIWWT \/ on February 28, 2026 in Ghent, Belgium. (Photo by Luc Claessen\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DEhrjKwg8G27GhgkiofuKK.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">One of the pre-race favourites, Elisa Balsamo (Lidl-Trek) gets a bike change after a mechanical issue. <\/span><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:12:22+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:12:22.851Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"bd51ba22-8705-43a8-ae4f-767fb204c6c8\">It\u2019s a fast race so far, the average for the opening 17km is almost 43km\/h, despite that, our four leaders\u2019 advantage is now just over one minute.<br \/>20km until we reach the Lange Munte cobbles.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:06:53+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:06:53.498Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"eab905c1-18cb-489e-b2a7-59c6399f7d70\">Along with Claes we have three other winners in the race today, Anna van der Breggen (SD Worx-Protime) won in 2015 and 2021, while her team mate Lotte Kopecky was victorious in 2023. Tiffany Cromwell won way back in 2023 and you can read our interview with her here.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/womens-cycling\/the-level-is-a-thousand-times-higher-than-2013-tiffany-cromwell-on-her-omloop-het-nieuwsblad-victory-and-how-the-classics-have-transformed-since\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/womens-cycling\/the-level-is-a-thousand-times-higher-than-2013-tiffany-cromwell-on-her-omloop-het-nieuwsblad-victory-and-how-the-classics-have-transformed-since\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>&#8216;The level is a thousand times higher than 2013&#8217; &#8211; Tiffany Cromwell on her Omloop Het Nieuwsblad victory and how the Classics have transformed since.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:05:01+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:05:01.824Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"112c2160-3a4a-40eb-9b59-229f28efe71c\">The gap is coming down again though, maybe the bunch is not too happy about this group of four.<br \/>The first cobbled sector in Lange Munte which comes after 37.2km, though that&#8217;s more than 20km away.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T13:00:11+00:00\">2026-02-28T13:00:11.479Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"f209b1d8-03a1-4223-a0af-eefc69a965a0\">We have a breakaway, Lea Lin Teutenberg (Lotto-Intermarch\u00e9 Ladies), Britt de Grave, Jony van den Eijnden (both Citymesh-Customm), and Emilie Fortin (Minimax) have around 30 seconds on the peloton.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T12:50:52+00:00\">2026-02-28T12:50:52.231Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"f888e059-81bb-49a0-8957-278bf8cd3b7e\">As soon as the flag dropped we have some attacks at the front of the race three riders are trying to get away<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T12:50:12+00:00\">2026-02-28T12:50:12.182Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"e353e836-16b6-4763-a9a8-d6af97ce3c67\">With so many key points along the route we\u2019re likely to have some unpredictable racing and last year was the perfect example of that, Lotte Claes emerging from the day&#8217;s breakaway as the day&#8217;s winner.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Read how she did it here.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/races\/omloop-het-nieuwsblad-women-2025\/elite-women\/results\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/races\/omloop-het-nieuwsblad-women-2025\/elite-women\/results\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Omloop Het Nieuwsblad Women: Lotte Claes takes shock victory from early breakaway as the favourites get it all wrong<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T12:48:26+00:00\">2026-02-28T12:48:26.740Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"059687a8-9878-4001-a5bd-6af1da2d0c26\">There are 10 climbs too, and of those Eikenberg, Molenberg, Muur-Kapelmuur and Bosberg are also cobbled. Kapelmuur and Bosberg are likely to to be decisive as they&#8217;re steep too and come 15.7 and 11.8km from the finish.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T12:46:45+00:00\">2026-02-28T12:46:45.767Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-the-official-start-is-given\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-the-official-start-is-given\"><span>The official start is given<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T12:45:15+00:00\">2026-02-28T12:45:15.586Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"f86a227a-9ea9-4470-b54a-558a7f1f92d5\">As this is the start of the cobbled Classics season you&#8217;d expect some pav\u00e9 sectors and we have five of them, starting after 37km with Lange Munte then Holleweg, Kerkgate, Jagerij and Haaghoek.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T12:42:50+00:00\">2026-02-28T12:42:50.499Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"48cb7174-97b9-4d25-bb07-dfdd58ff42d8\">The weather always has an impact in these early season races, and the wind is blowing and could cause splits. It\u2019s also been raining and due to start again, making the cobbles a different challenge!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T12:38:06+00:00\">2026-02-28T12:38:06.091Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"a48a3525-8d7a-4d40-b3e8-e110e2ec8368\">Today\u2019s 137.2km route is 800m shorter than 2025, but once again starts in Gent and finishes in Ninove. After the presentation we\u2019ll have 5.6km of neutral before the official start in Merelbeke-Melle, just outside the city.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T12:32:07+00:00\">2026-02-28T12:32:07.338Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"a783aba2-b36c-408b-ad80-f31e3379d11b\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL.jpg\" alt=\"GHENT, BELGIUM - FEBRUARY 28: Demi Vollering of Netherlands and Team FDJ United - SUEZ prior to the 21st Omloop Het Nieuwsblad 2026, Women&amp;#039;s Elite a 137.2km one day race from Ghent to Ninove \/ #UCIWWT \/ on February 28, 2026 in Ghent, Belgium. (Photo by Luc Claessen\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YTSHdhsBmP9cejvFJHQfKL.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">European champion, Demi Vollering (FDJ United-SUEZ) is one of the favourites <\/span><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T12:23:48+00:00\">2026-02-28T12:23:48.216Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"fe34a132-70fb-47df-8c0b-ab7510e3190c\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7.jpg\" alt=\"GHENT, BELGIUM - FEBRUARY 28: Elynor Backstedt of Great Britain and UAE Team ADQ prior to the 21st Omloop Het Nieuwsblad 2026, Women&amp;#039;s Elite a 137.2km one day race from Ghent to Ninove \/ #UCIWWT \/ on February 28, 2026 in Ghent, Belgium. (Photo by Luc Claessen\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iojXnJv8zUEPQo3bpTMDP7.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Elynor Backstedt (UAE Team ADQ) meets the press before the race. <\/span><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T12:20:52+00:00\">2026-02-28T12:20:52.090Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"ddb3864d-c877-4d6d-97e5-8c13200f45d6\">While the men will be racing Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne tomorrow, the second race of the women&#8217;s Opening Weekend is the Fenix-Ekoi Omloop van het Haageland.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T12:18:54+00:00\">2026-02-28T12:18:54.634Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"3186809d-0bbf-48e0-9591-04f5432700a7\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M.jpg\" alt=\"GHENT, BELGIUM - FEBRUARY 28: Susanne Andersen of Norway, Teuntje Beekhuis of Netherlands, Kamilla Aasebo of Norway, Laura Tomasi of Italy, Alessia Vigilia of Italy, Linda Zanetti of Switzerland and Team Uno-X Mobility prior to the 21st Omloop Het Nieuwsblad 2026, Women&amp;#039;s Elite a 137.2km one day race from Ghent to Ninove \/ #UCIWWT \/ on February 28, 2026 in Ghent, Belgium. (Photo by Luc Claessen\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uf2RbvAE8vLqkjYicbQP2M.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">UNO-X Mobility line up with Susanne Andersen, Teuntje Beekhuis, Kamilla Aasebo, Laura Tomasi, Alessia Vigilia and Linda Zanetti. <\/span><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-28T12:13:58+00:00\">2026-02-28T12:13:58.657Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"b0e1c3ae-4e2a-4f00-8e94-3baba5ae8cf7\">There\u2019s always a huge sense of occasion at this first Belgian race of the year, and it has one of the best team presentations of them all, at the legendary T\u2019Kuipke velodrome in Gent.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-02-26T13:16:32+00:00\">2026-02-26T13:16:32.302Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"165e62a9-1dbe-4e3d-bf69-4f48182ffe46\">Good morning and welcome to our live coverage of the 21st edition of Omloop Nieuwsblad Women Elite. We&#8217;ll bring you all the action blow by blow, stay with us!<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">We&#8217;ve had a few races in Australia and around southern Europe, but today&#8217;s race is part of the Flemish Opening Weekend, when Belgium hosts the first cobbled races and the time many see as the real start to 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\" style=\"--text-on-accent-color: white; --comment-widget-header-bg-color: var(--accent-color); --comment-widget-header-text-color: var(--text-on-accent-color); --comment-widget-header-link-color: var(--text-on-accent-color);\" x-data=\"ViafouraComments('300px')\" x-show=\"$store.Viafoura.showWidgets\" data-nosnippet=\"\" data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=\" vfcustom-community-guidelines=\"\" follow=\"\" our=\"\" href=\"&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot;\" target=\"&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community\" guidelines=\"\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\" x-show=\"showConfirmDisplayNamePrompt\" x-cloak=\"\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<p><button x-on:click=\"$store.ViafouraAuthModal.logout()\" type=\"button\" class=\"block mb-3 w-full justify-center px-3 py-2 text-sm font-semibold text-white shadow-sm button-primary\"><br \/>\nLogout<br \/>\n<\/button>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/live\/omloop-het-nieuwsblad-women-live-another-surprise-or-is-the-seasons-opening-cobbled-classic-one-for-the-favourites\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Refresh 2026-02-28T17:49:40.803Z You can read our full race report here. Omloop Het Nieuwsblad: Fierce fight between Demi Vollering vs Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney ends in a maiden victory for European champion. 2026-02-28T17:39:33.225Z There&#8217;s no Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne for women, but Opening Weekend continues with Omloop van het Hageland. A third tier, 1.1 race, most of the WorldTeams will field [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":230844,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"tdm_status":"","tdm_grid_status":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[6804],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-230843","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-cycling"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/230843","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=230843"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/230843\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/230844"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=230843"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=230843"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=230843"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}