Climb High: The Exciting Changes Coming to the 2026 E3 Saxo Classic

As the cycling world gears up for the E3 Saxo Classic, some thrilling changes have been confirmed for the 2026 race! If you’re a fan of challenging climbs and stunning landscapes, get ready for a couple of memorable ascents that could change the game. With thrilling tweaks and the spirit of competition buzzing, there’s never been a better time to look forward to this iconic event.

A New Route Awaits

On Wednesday, race organizers shared some valuable updates about the 2026 route. This year, the Classic will bring a fresh twist by introducing a second ascent of the infamous Oude Kwaremont from a different direction. This legendary climb has been a highlight of many bike races, and it’s exciting to think about how this new approach could affect the race dynamics. But that’s not all; the E3-Col climb, which has been gaining popularity, will see the peloton tackle it not once, but twice!

Harelbeke, the humble town that both starts and finishes the race, will continue to be the backdrop for the E3 Saxo Classic, now officially partnered until at least 2031. This historic connection, which began way back in 1957, adds a sense of tradition to the excitement.

The Challenging Climbs

So, what are these climbs like? The E3-Col is a 1.2-kilometer climb with an average gradient of 6%, punctuated by steeper segments of over 12%. Picture yourself sweating it out, the sound of your tires gripping the asphalt, and the cheers from the crowd ringing in your ears!

With the Oude Kwaremont looming larger than ever, riders will first tackle it after 121 kilometers via a new route that has never been seen in major races before. The hill will no longer be approached through its usual cobbled path but instead feature a steep ascent via Keuzelingstraat. This change adds an exciting twist to a beloved challenge, and it will be captivating to watch how the cyclists adapt to the new strategies.

A Little Bit of Everything

The updated route means the race will cover about five kilometers more than previous years, with a total elevation gain of over 3,000 meters. While it sounds daunting, race organizers assure us this tweak isn’t necessarily about creating a tougher race. Spokesman Jacques Coussens emphasized that the changes make it more interesting rather than overwhelmingly challenging. That’s good news for fans of last year’s winner, Mathieu van der Poel!

But it’s not just climbing that has been rethought. Safety concerns also led to adjustments, like starting the juniors an hour earlier to avoid potential accidents on the course. Small changes can make a big difference, especially when it comes to ensuring the safety of all competitors.

Ride On!

As we gear up for the E3 Saxo Classic on March 27, 2026, the excitement continues to build. Whether you’re a rider dreaming of competing someday or a passionate cycling fan, these changes bring a new wave of thrill to the Classic. So gear up, stay safe on those climbs, and remember—the road might be steep, but the joy of cycling is even steeper!

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