Early Crash Disrupts Key Contenders at Grand Prix E3 Saxo Bank Classic

A major crash five kilometers into the 207 km race in Belgium delayed favorites Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert, and Filippo Ganna by over three minutes, with four riders hospitalized.

The 67th edition of the Grand Prix E3 Saxo Bank Classic began on March 28, 2025, in Harelbeke, Belgium, featuring a 207 km route with cobbled sectors and steep climbs.
A significant crash early in the race split the peloton, delaying top contenders Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert, and Filippo Ganna by over three minutes.
Four riders were hospitalized following the crash, and three members of the Soudal Quick-Step team were forced to abandon the race.
Mathieu van der Poel, the defending champion, and Wout van Aert are attempting to recover their positions as the race progresses.
Tadej Pogacar, another major cycling star, opted to skip the event to focus on his debut at Paris-Roubaix in April.