For the first time since 2018, neither Paris-Nice nor Tirreno-Adriatico has seen a stage win by a Belgian rider, raising concerns as the spring classics approach.
The recent races, key preparation events for the upcoming Monument races, concluded without a Belgian cyclist taking a stage victory. This marks the longest drought for Belgian riders in these two prominent stage races in over five years.
The Monument races – prestigious one-day cycling events – are considered some of the most challenging and vital races on the professional cycling calendar. The lack of success for Belgian riders in the lead-up to these events has prompted discussion about their current form and potential performance in the classics.
Paris-Nice and Tirreno-Adriatico traditionally serve as important testing grounds for contenders aiming for success in the spring classics. The absence of Belgian stage winners could signal a shift in the competitive landscape or a temporary dip in form for the nation’s cycling stars.
