Harelbeke, Belgium – Organizers have unveiled significant changes to the 2026 E3 Saxo Classic route, promising a more challenging race for riders and a thrilling spectacle for fans. The revamped course will feature a second ascent of the iconic Oude Kwaremont, along with double appearances on the E3-Col climb, adding to the already demanding nature of this key Belgian Classic. The alterations come as the E3 Saxo Classic solidifies its commitment to Harelbeke, securing the town as the race’s start and finish location through at least 2031, continuing a tradition that began in 1957.
The E3 Saxo Classic, often considered a crucial dress rehearsal for the Tour of Flanders, is known for its unpredictable terrain and decisive climbs. The 2026 edition aims to amplify these characteristics. Even as the race organizers acknowledged the route changes, they downplayed the notion of a dramatically harder race, stating it’s more about variation than increased difficulty. “The race is about five kilometers longer in total than this year and with over 3,000 metres, it will also include slightly more elevation gain, but that certainly won’t result in a spectacularly tougher race,” race spokesperson Jacques Coussens told Het Laatste Nieuws.
New Challenges on the Horizon
The most notable change is the addition of a second ascent of the Oude Kwaremont. Traditionally, the race features a single, grueling climb of the Kwaremont from the Paterberg in the final 50 kilometers. This remains, but riders will now encounter the famed climb earlier in the race, after 121 kilometers. Adding to the challenge, this ascent will be approached via a new route up Keuzelingstraat, a steep but unpaved climb that has never been used in a major race before, according to organizers.
Alongside the double Kwaremont challenge, the E3 Saxo Classic will also feature two ascents of the E3-Col, officially the Karnemelkbeekstraat in Ronse. The E3-Col, a 1.2km climb with an average gradient of 6% and steeper sections exceeding 12%, will appear at the 113km and 176km marks, playing a pivotal role in the final 35 kilometers of the race. The climb has been dubbed the ‘E3-Col’ since 2019, though it hasn’t always been a fixture in the race.
These route adjustments bring the total elevation gain for the 2026 E3 Saxo Classic to over 3,000 meters, adding to the physical demands on the peloton. The changes could impact the strategies of previous winners like Mathieu van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck), the 2025 champion and his rivals, such as Mads Pedersen (Lidl Trek).
Beyond the Route: A Unique Announcement
The announcement of the route changes was itself unconventional. In a departure from typical press conferences, the E3 Saxo Classic organizers staged a “wedding” between the race and the town of Harelbeke, symbolizing their continued five-year partnership. This playful approach, still, wasn’t entirely out of character, as the organizers have previously drawn criticism for publicity materials deemed insensitive.
The race organizers also addressed logistical concerns stemming from a near-miss incident in the previous year, where the elite race almost intersected with the men’s junior race. To prevent a recurrence, the junior race will now start an hour earlier in 2026, and minor adjustments will be made to the professional course.
What’s Next for the Cobbled Classics?
The 2026 E3 Saxo Classic, scheduled for Friday, March 27, will serve as the opening salvo in a series of major cobbled Classics, including Gent-Wevelgem, the Tour of Flanders, and Paris-Roubaix. These races are crucial proving grounds for riders aiming for success in the spring Classics season. The altered route promises a dynamic and challenging race, setting the stage for a compelling battle among the world’s top cyclists.
The E3 Saxo Classic continues to evolve, aiming to provide a thrilling experience for both competitors, and spectators. Share your thoughts on the new route and who you think will triumph in 2026 in the comments below.
