Gent-Wevelgem Live: Echelons Split Peloton in De Moeren as Key Riders Caught Out

Gent-Wevelgem, often referred to as a 'sprinters' classic', frequently sees its decisive moments shaped by the wind, particularly in the flat, exposed section known as De Moeren, typically encountered before the main hill zone. Today is proving no exception.

The race exploded as predicted when the peloton hit this section, with teams alert to the danger immediately forming echelons. Lidl-Trek, showing strength with defending champion Mads Pedersen who looks visibly strong, along with Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe, capitalized on the situation, placing multiple riders in the front group and driving a hard pace.

Conversely, Alpecin-Deceuninck found themselves on the back foot, needing to organize a determined chase to bring Jasper Philipsen back into contention. This mirrors their situation in the recent E3 Saxo Classic, where they successfully chased back before Mathieu van der Poel (absent today) took victory. Soudal Quick-Step, with Tim Merlier, also appears to be in the chasing groups.

The current situation sets up a tense dynamic for the next phase of the race, which includes the first ascents of the Scherpenberg, Baneberg, Monteberg, and the iconic Kemmelberg. The chasing groups must close the gap before these climbs, or risk their leaders being out of contention. The energy spent in the chase could prove costly later in the demanding 250.3 km race.

In the women's race, also taking place today, similar tactical considerations apply, with top contenders like Lotte Kopecky and Lorena Wiebes (Team SD Worx-Protime) needing to navigate the course's challenges.

What are 'waaiers' or echelons?

Echelons (Dutch: waaiers) are formations riders adopt in crosswinds. They stagger diagonally across the road to find shelter from the wind behind the rider ahead and slightly to the side. This often causes the peloton to split into multiple groups, as the road isn't wide enough for everyone to find shelter.

Who are the main favourites for Gent-Wevelgem 2025?

Key contenders mentioned include defending champion Mads Pedersen (Lidl-Trek), Jasper Philipsen (Alpecin-Deceuninck), Tim Merlier (Soudal Quick-Step), Olav Kooij (Visma-Lease a Bike), Jonathan Milan (Lidl-Trek), and potentially others like Arnaud De Lie (Lotto Dstny) and Biniam Girmay (Intermarché-Wanty).

Why is De Moeren so important in Gent-Wevelgem?

It's a long, flat, exposed stretch of road notorious for strong crosswinds. It often acts as the first major selection point in the race, splitting the peloton before the challenging hill zone.

The race is wide open! Will the chasing groups make it back, or has the winning move already gone? Do you think Philipsen and Merlier can recover from being caught out?

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