As the 2026 cycling season unfolds, the anticipation surrounding the Spring Classics intensifies. Renowned commentator Luca Gregorio offers his insights into the upcoming races, focusing on the challenges and contenders of the Northern Classics.
The Northern Classics: A Month of Monumental Races
The Northern Classics, a series of prestigious one-day races, are set to captivate cycling enthusiasts throughout March and April. The schedule includes:
- March 25: Ronde Van Brugge (formerly Three Days of De Panne)
- March 27: E3 Saxo Classic
- March 29: In Flanders Fields (Gand–Wevelgem)
- April 1: Dwars door Vlaanderen
- April 5: Tour of Flanders
- April 8: Scheldeprijs
- April 12: Paris–Roubaix
- April 17: De Brabantse Pijl (La Flèche Brabançonne)
- April 19: Amstel Gold Race
- April 22: La Flèche Wallonne
- April 26: Liège–Bastogne–Liège
These races are not only tests of physical endurance but also of strategic acumen, often serving as a proving ground for the sport’s elite.
Luca Gregorio’s Perspective on the Classics
In a recent interview, Luca Gregorio shared his thoughts on the upcoming races:
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On the Appeal of the Northern Classics: Gregorio expressed a preference for the cobblestone sectors and the iconic climbs of the Flanders region, noting their unique beauty and the unparalleled spectacle they offer.
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E3 Saxo Classic and Ronde Van Brugge: He anticipates intense competition in these races, emphasizing that they are not mere warm-ups but significant events in their own right.
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Tour of Flanders (De Ronde): Gregorio highlighted the race’s demanding nature, requiring a combination of endurance, power, technique, and tactical intelligence. He also mentioned the Oude Kwaremont as a particularly iconic climb in the race.
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Paris–Roubaix: Describing it as a race of elimination, Gregorio conveyed the unpredictable and brutal nature of the event, where fortunes can change in an instant. He also noted the unique atmosphere of finishing in the Roubaix velodrome.
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Mathieu van der Poel and Tadej Pogačar: Gregorio acknowledged the exceptional talents of both riders, noting their dominance in recent editions of the Classics. He expressed hope that other riders, like Wout van Aert, could challenge them, adding excitement to the races.
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Technological Innovations: Reflecting on the evolution of cycling technology, Gregorio mentioned the increasing use of wider tires, such as 35mm, to better navigate the cobblestone sectors, and the adoption of aerodynamic skinsuits to enhance performance.
Looking Ahead
As the Northern Classics approach, the cycling world eagerly awaits to see if the established stars will continue their dominance or if new challengers will emerge. With insights from experts like Luca Gregorio, fans can look forward to a thrilling and unpredictable series of races.
Highlights:
- ‘If I’m 1% off, Tadej will be gone’ – Mathieu van der Poel prepares to take on Pogačar on the Cipressa at Milan-San Remo, Published on Thursday, March 19
- ‘Everybody’s looking at me’ – Tadej Pogačar on his dates with destiny at Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix, Published on Friday, March 20
- Who will be king of the spring? – How Milan-San Remo could write the next chapter of Tadej Pogačar and Mathieu van der Poel’s thrilling rivalry, Published on Friday, March 20