Belgium 03 Apr – 06 Apr 2026 Class 2.1 – Stages – Class 1
Website www.stervanzuidlimburg.be
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The 47th Ster van Zuid-Limburg, a prestigious UCI 2.1 category stage race for Men Juniors, is currently taking place from April 3 to April 6, 2026.
The race covers approximately 397 km across the Limburg region of Belgium, featuring a mix of road stages and a crucial individual time trial.
Stage Schedule
| Date | Stage | Route | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday, April 3 | Stage 1 | Munsterbilzen – Riemst | 83.0 km |
| Saturday, April 4 | Stage 2 | Lanaken – Lanaken | 94.5 km |
| Sunday, April 5 | Stage 3a | Wellen – Wellen | 93.7 km |
| Sunday, April 5 | Stage 3b (ITT) | Sint-Truiden – Sint-Truiden | 6.6 km |
| Monday, April 6 | Stage 4 | Riemst – Mopertingen | 119.6 km |
Key Information
- Classification: UCI Men Junior 2.1.
- Decisive Moments: Stage 3 is a split day, with a road race in the morning followed by a short, technical Individual Time Trial (ITT) in Sint-Truiden that often determines the general classification.
- The Finale: The final stage into Mopertingen is the longest and most demanding, typically serving as the last battleground for the yellow jersey.
Notable teams in this year’s edition include Soudal – Quick Step U19, Acrog-Tormans, Cannibal B Victorious, and various national selections including the United States.
Results powered by FirstCycling.com
Results powered by FirstCycling.com
Results powered by FirstCycling.com
Results powered by FirstCycling.com
Results powered by FirstCycling.com
Results powered by FirstCycling.com
The Ster van Zuid-Limburg (Star of South Limburg) is one of the most storied events on the international junior cycling calendar. Held annually in the Limburg province of Belgium, it serves as a critical proving ground for the sport’s future stars.
Origins and Evolution
The race was first established in 1980. Initially a domestic Belgian event, its reputation for technical courses and professional organization quickly drew international attention.
- UCI Status: It eventually earned UCI 2.1 status, the highest classification for junior stage races. This designation ensures a high-caliber field, attracting national teams and top-tier development squads from across Europe and North America.
- The “Easter” Tradition: The race is traditionally held over the Easter weekend, making it an early-season benchmark for the world’s best 17- and 18-year-old riders.
A Launchpad for Professionals
The true legacy of the Ster van Zuid-Limburg lies in its alumni. Winning or even performing well here is often a harbinger of a successful professional career.
Notable past participants and winners include:
- Remco Evenepoel: Dominated the junior ranks here before moving directly to the WorldTour.
- Wout van Aert: Competed in the race during his development years.
- Mads Pedersen: The former World Champion found early success on these roads.
- Adam Yates: Showcased his climbing and stage-racing potential in Limburg.
Characteristics of the Race
Historically, the race is defined by the geography of the Haspengouw region.
- The Terrain: While not featuring the high mountains of the Ardennes, the route is characterized by “Belgian flats”—exposed, winding roads, short “hellingen” (climbs), and occasional cobblestones.
- The Format: It almost always utilizes a multi-stage format, frequently including a “split-stage” day featuring a short morning road race and a decisive afternoon Individual Time Trial (ITT).
- Tactical Difficulty: Because it is held in early April, wind and rain often play a major role, forcing riders to master the art of “waaiers” (echelons) early in their careers.
Recent Context
In recent years, the race has adapted to the increasing professionalization of junior cycling. Equipment and tactics now mirror the pro peloton, with teams like Soudal-Quick Step and Visma-Lease a Bike sending their U19 satellite programs to compete. Despite its growth, it remains a grassroots Belgian festival of cycling, organized with a deep passion for finding the next “Great” of the sport.
