2025 Pro Cycling Classics

Monster Mads Pedersen Claims Gent-Wevelgem for Third Time

In an electrifying display of endurance and tactical brilliance, Danish cyclist Mads Pedersen of Lidl-Trek triumphed at the prestigious Gent-Wevelgem on Sunday, marking his third victory at this iconic race, having previously claimed the title in 2020 and 2021.

Monster Mads Pedersen Claims Gent-Wevelgem for Third Time

Pedersen's remarkable solo effort not only showcased his exceptional talent but also placed him among cycling legends, joining the ranks of Robert Van Eenaeme, Rik Van Looy, Eddy Merckx, Mario Cipollini, Tom Boonen, and Peter Sagan as a three-time winner.

The race unfolded with drama from the outset, as a group of nine riders broke away early, including Rui Oliveira, Max Walker, Sam Maisonobe, and Jasha Sutterlin. However, the peloton’s dynamics shifted dramatically when the wind began to wreak havoc, leaving several pre-race favorites, including Jasper Philipsen and Tim Merlier, caught behind and struggling to catch up.

As the race progressed, Team Visma | Lease a Bike's Victor Campenaerts seized the opportunity to bridge the gap to the breakaway, igniting further tension within the peloton. The race reached a critical point on the Kemmelberg with over 80 kilometers remaining, where an elite group of six riders attempted to break free. Yet, it was Pedersen who would steal the show.

With a fierce determination, Pedersen launched his solo attack, leaving the competition in his wake. On the second ascent of the Kemmelberg, with just under 60 kilometers to go, he accelerated once more, splitting the breakaway and establishing a commanding lead. By the time he reached the 40-kilometer mark, Pedersen had extended his advantage to over a minute, leaving the main peloton trailing at a distance of 1:40.

Despite the peloton's attempts to reel him back in, including a fierce chase led by teams like Uno-X Mobility and Soudal - Quick-Step, Pedersen's Lidl-Trek teammates worked tirelessly to disrupt any organized pursuit. As the final kilometers approached, Pedersen maintained a lead of more than 1:20, bolstered by a strong tailwind that propelled him toward victory.

Crossing the finish line solo, Pedersen secured his place in cycling history, finishing ahead of Belgian Tim Merlier in second and Italian Jonathan Milan in third.

“This victory means everything to me,” said Pedersen after the race. “Gent-Wevelgem is a race rich in history, and to win it three times is a dream come true. It was a tough race, but my team believed in me, and we executed our strategy perfectly.”

Mads Pedersen's remarkable achievement not only highlights his prowess as a cyclist but also cements his status as one of the sport's elite competitors. As he celebrates this monumental win, fans and fellow cyclists alike eagerly anticipate what the future holds for the Danish powerhouse.

2025 Gent-Wevelgem Men's Race Top 10

01 Pedersen Mads Lidl-Trek 05:30:21
02 Merlier Tim Soudal Quick-Step + 49
03 Milan Jonathan Lidl-Trek + 49
04 Kristoff Alexander Uno-X Mobility + 49
05 Hofstetter Hugo Israel-Premier Tech + 49
06 Ballerini Davide XDS Astana Team + 49
07 Girmay Biniam Intermarché-Wanty + 49
08 Berckmoes Jenno Lotto + 49
09 Meeus Jordi Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe + 49
10 Rex Laurenz Intermarché-Wanty + 49