Cold and Rain Forecasted for Liège-Bastogne-Liège, Potentially Impacting Top Favorites

The prestigious Liège-Bastogne-Liège cycling classic, the last of the Ardennes Classics, is set to take place this Sunday under challenging weather conditions. The forecast calls for cold temperatures and rain throughout the 254.5 km race, which could significantly impact the performance of the top favorites.

Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) and Mathieu van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck) are considered the two main contenders for victory. Pogačar, who won the race in 2021, is fresh and in top form, while van der Poel aims to complete his collection of the five Monuments of cycling. The course, featuring 11 classified climbs including the legendary Côte de La Roche aux Faucons, is expected to favor climbers like Pogačar. However, van der Poel has been improving his climbing skills and could pose a serious threat, especially if the race comes down to the final descent and sprint.

The cold and wet weather may cause issues for the lightweight climbers and classics riders. "I have reconnoitered the course and am prepared for the cold and rainy conditions, which I expect to be less severe than the weather I experienced at the Tour of Catalonia," said Pogačar. He expressed disappointment that two-time winner Remco Evenepoel will not be competing but believes there are many other potential contenders.

Mattias Skjelmose (Lidl-Trek), a young Danish cyclist, is another rider to watch. Despite battling hypothermia during La Flèche Wallonne earlier this week, Skjelmose recovered and feels confident about his chances in Liège-Bastogne-Liège. "I believe I can compete for a podium spot, especially with Tadej Pogacar in the race," he stated.

Why this matters: The outcome of Liège-Bastogne-Liège could provide insights into the form and strategies of top contenders like Pogačar and van der Poel ahead of the upcoming Grand Tours. The race's challenging conditions and route make it a true test of endurance and tactical skills for the world's best cyclists.

With the unpredictable weather adding an extra layer of complexity, Liège-Bastogne-Liège promises to be a thrilling and dramatic race. Pogačar, supported by a strong UAE Team Emirates squad, remains the top favorite, but the likes of van der Poel and Skjelmose will be eager to challenge him on the steep climbs of the Ardennes. As Pogačar noted, "There are many potential contenders for the race, and I am relying on my team, particularly Marc Hirschi, to support me in the final 100 kilometers."

Key Takeaways

• Liège-Bastogne-Liège cycling classic set for challenging weather conditions.
• Pogačar and van der Poel are the top contenders, with Pogačar the favorite.
• Skjelmose, a young Danish cyclist, is another rider to watch.
• Outcome could provide insights into form and strategies of top contenders.
• Unpredictable weather adds complexity, with Pogačar relying on his team.