A Belgian Classic in August
The great Belgian one-day races are usually held in spring, but even so, the country of the classics hosts events of this kind throughout the year. Such is the case with the Circuit Franco-Belge, taking place this Friday. The race runs mainly through Walloon territory and features a rolling final circuit, perfect for Ardennes-style riders.
Route
The race covers 207 km and 2,200 metres of total elevation gain, most of which comes in the final circuit, which the riders will complete five times. This circuit includes the climbs of Col du Hortelin (1.3 km at 4.5%), Knokteberg-Trieu (1.2 km at 7.3%) and Kluisbeerg (1.3 km at 5.8%), where the finish line is located.
Favourites
Corbin Strong (600), Arnaud De Lie (800), Kaden Groves (1000), Alex Aranburu (800), Pablo Castrillo (600), Jonas Abrahamsen (600), Rick Pluimers (400), Lorenzo Rota (200), Amaury Capiot (200), Rasmus Tiller (200) and Pau Miquel (400) are among the most notable riders on the provisional start list.
Photo: © Francis Buret / Circuit Franco-Belge