The Flemish Opening Weekend kicked off with two highly anticipated cobbled Classics: Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne. The events, which took place on February 28 and March 1, 2026, drew massive audiences and left fans on the edge of their seats.
Omloop Het Nieuwsblad Sets the Tone
Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, the first cobbled Classic and European race of the 2026 WorldTour, took place on February 28. Top cyclists battled it out on a challenging course with treacherous cobblestone sections and grueling climbs.
Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne Steals the Show
Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne, which took place on March 1, featured 13 climbs and a heart-stopping high-speed finish. Matthew Brennan claimed his first Flemish classic with a convincing sprint victory, solidifying his position as a force to be reckoned with in the sport.
Extensive Live Coverage
Sporza and VRT 1 provided extensive live coverage of both events. The races commenced with team presentations and interviews, while the finales were broadcast live on VRT 1. Free streams were available on sporza.be, the Sporza app, and VRT Max.
Significance of the Events
As part of the 2026 WorldTour, Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne offer cyclists a chance to earn crucial points and gain momentum in the lead-up to the season’s major events. For fans, these cobbled Classics provide a unique and exhilarating experience.
What’s Next
As the season continues to unfold, fans can rest assured that Sporza will continue to provide top-notch coverage, including live streams, TV broadcasts, and expert analysis. Whether you’re a seasoned cycling enthusiast or just discovering the sport, there’s never been a better time to get involved and experience the thrill of the ride.
