Van der Poel Takes Second Consecutive Win at E3 Saxo Classic

Mathieu van der Poel secured his second consecutive win at the E3 Saxo Classic, dominating the field with a solo attack on the Oude Kwaremont.

Mathieu van der Poel secured his second consecutive win at the E3 Saxo Classic on Friday, demonstrating his exceptional form. Van der Poel established a decisive gap on the Oude Kwaremont, leaving Mads Pedersen (Lidl-Trek) and Filippo Ganna (Ineos Grenadiers) behind.

Mads Pedersen, who finished second, expressed his satisfaction with his performance, stating, “I am really happy about what I accomplished today.” He acknowledged that his result was a positive indicator of his form ahead of the spring classics, saying, “It's nice to feel that I am in the right shape before the classics of the spring.”

With the E3 Saxo Classic victory, Mathieu van der Poel remains undefeated in one-day races this season. 🙌 pic.twitter.com/eOGI33FEaE

— NBC Sports Cycling (@NBCSCycling) March 28, 2025

Pedersen also praised Van der Poel's impressive performance, saying, “Mathieu really showed his class today, it was impossible to hold his wheel and once he had established his lead, it was impossible to come back.” He affectionately referred to Van der Poel as a “monster,” acknowledging his exceptional abilities, and concluded, “He showed what a monster he is today and therefore I can't be unhappy finishing second.”

Never change, Mathieu van der Poel 🍻🤣 pic.twitter.com/456IzU5ANd

— Cycling on TNT Sports (@cyclingontnt) March 28, 2025

Mads Pedersen put forth a valiant effort to catch the surging Mathieu van der Poel, but the Dutch rider continued to gain momentum in the gray, drizzly conditions of West Flanders. Van der Poel launched his winning attack from a five-rider breakaway on the Oude Kwaremont, gradually increasing his lead over the final 40 kilometers of the race.

Van der Poel's lead continued to grow as he navigated the challenging terrain, including the Karnemelkbeekstraat and the Tiegemberg. He ultimately crossed the finish line with a comfortable margin, defeating Pedersen by over a minute. Filippo Ganna secured third place, a further minute behind Van der Poel.

This victory marked Van der Poel's second consecutive win in a short span, following his triumph at the Milano-San Remo over the weekend. His impressive performance solidified his position as a dominant force in the cycling world.