Namur’s citadel day
The finale of the Grand Prix de Wallonie is one of the most characteristic on the calendar, as the final ascent to Namur’s citadel offers 3 electrifying last kilometers. The race, which was first held in 1935, is a must-attend event for puncheurs competing in the end-of-season classics in Belgium and in northern France.
Route
The route covers a distance of 201 kilometers and an accumulated positive elevation gain of 2866 meters through the French-speaking region of Belgium, filled with short climbs conducive to attacks. However, history tells us that many teams control the race to ensure that the peloton arrives all together at the foot of Namur’s citadel (3 km at 3.9%), where puncheurs usually vie for victory in the final climb.
Favorites
The finale heavily conditions the race, so favorites must be sought among punchy riders. Mathieu Van Der Poel (800), Biniam Girmay (800), Dylan Teuns (600), Axel Zingle (400), Tim Wellens (200), Stephen Williams (200), Matteo Jorgenson (800), Julien Simon (200), and Greg Van Avermaet (200) are some of the top favorites.
Photo: © Grand Prix de Wallonie