Belgium 28 Feb 2026 Class 1.WWT – 1 day – UCI Women’s WorldTour
Website www.omloopnieuwsblad.be
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The Omloop Het Nieuwsblad Women is the traditional “Opening Weekend” of the Belgian cycling season. While the men’s race dates back to 1945, the women’s edition has a shorter but rapidly accelerating history that mirrors the growth of professional women’s cycling.
1. The Early Years (2006–2008)
The race was first held in 2006. At its inception, it was known as Omloop Het Volk, following the name of the sponsoring newspaper. The inaugural edition was won by Suzanne de Goede. In 2009, when the newspapers Het Volk and Het Nieuwsblad merged, the race was rebranded to its current name.
2. Growth and Professionalization (2009–2022)
For over a decade, the race was a prestigious 1.1 or 1.Pro category event. It became the defining “semi-classic” that tested riders on the cobbled bergs of Flanders early in the spring.
- Dutch Dominance: Riders from the Netherlands have historically dominated the race, with stars like Anna van der Breggen and Annemiek van Vleuten each taking two victories.
- Course Identity: The race typically starts in Ghent and finishes in Ninove, featuring iconic climbs like the Muur van Geraardsbergen and the Bosberg.
3. The WorldTour Era (2023–Present)
A major turning point occurred in 2023 when the race was officially promoted to the UCI Women’s WorldTour (1.WWT).
- Equality Initiative: Along with the promotion, the organizers (Flanders Classics) introduced the “Closing the Gap” project, ensuring equal prize money for the men’s and women’s races.
- Recent Champions:
- 2023: Lotte Kopecky (Belgium) – A historic win for the home crowd.
- 2024: Marianne Vos (Netherlands) – Adding one of the few trophies she was missing to her legendary cabinet.
- 2025: Lotte Claes (Belgium) – A massive upset victory from an early breakaway.
Historical Summary Table
| Era | Category | Notable Detail |
| 2006–2008 | 1.2 / 1.1 | Known as Omloop Het Volk. |
| 2009–2022 | 1.1 / 1.Pro | Established as the “Opening Weekend” anchor. |
| 2023–Current | 1.WWT | Promoted to top-tier; equal prize money established. |
Looking Ahead: 2026
The 21st edition is set for tomorrow, February 28, 2026. The 137.2 km route features a tougher finale this year with the addition of the Tenbosse and Parikeberg climbs just before the decisive Muur-Bosberg duo.
