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Belgium 27 Mar 2026 Class 1.UWT – 1 day – UCI WorldTour
Website www.e3saxoclassic.be
Data powered by FirstCycling.com
Results powered by FirstCycling.com
The E3 Saxo Classic is one of the most prestigious one-day cycling races in Belgium. Often called the “mini Tour of Flanders,” it serves as the ultimate dress rehearsal for the Ronde van Vlaanderen because it tackles many of the same iconic cobbled climbs (hellingen) in the Flemish Ardennes.
Origins and Evolution
The race was first held in 1958, organized by the Hand in Hand cycling club in Harelbeke.
- The Name: It was originally named Harelbeke–Antwerp–Harelbeke. The “E3” part of the name (introduced in 1970) refers to the E3 motorway (now the A14), which was being constructed at the time to connect Antwerp and Lille.
- The Route: While the start and finish have traditionally remained in Harelbeke, the route is famous for its “compact” brutality. It packs roughly 15 to 17 short, steep climbs—including the Paterberg, Oude Kwaremont, and the Taaienberg—into roughly 200 kilometers.
Major Historical Milestones
- Early Dominance: Belgian legend Rik Van Looy dominated the 1960s, winning the race four times (1964–1967).
- WorldTour Status: In 2012, the race was officially upgraded to the UCI WorldTour, cementing its status as a top-tier event rather than just a regional semi-classic.
- Commercial Rebranding: The race has seen several name changes due to sponsorship:
- E3-Prijs Vlaanderen (1970–2011)
- E3 BinckBank Classic (2019)
- E3 Saxo Bank Classic / Saxo Classic (2021–Present)
Record Breakers
The race is often defined by the “Kings of the Cobbles.”
- Tom Boonen: Holds the absolute record with 5 victories (2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2012).
- Rik Van Looy: 4 wins.
- Fabian Cancellara & Jan Raas: 3 wins each.
- Modern Era: In recent years, the race has been dominated by the “Big Three,” with Mathieu van der Poel (winning the most recent 2024 and 2025 editions) and Wout van Aert (2022, 2023) frequently battling for the title.
Controversy and Culture
The E3 organizers are known for a somewhat “provocative” marketing style. Over the years, they have faced significant criticism and were forced to withdraw several promotional posters and social media cartoons deemed sexist or offensive by the UCI and the public.
