Omloop Het Nieuwsblad traditionally marks the opening of the Spring Classics season after the early-season races in, Australia, the UAE and southern Europe.
Historically, the first race in Belgium is the start of the 'serious' racing in Europe, when many of the biggest and best Classics riders clash. It is the first WorldTour in Europe of the 2025 season.
It is the 80th edition in 2025 and the race takes place in the heart of the Flanders, on many of the same cobbles and bergs as the Tour of Flanders five weeks later. It is an indication of riders form and Classics talent.
Omloop Het Nieuwsblad was first held in 1945 and only three editions have been missed since then, in 1960, 1986, and 2004, largely due to the winter weather that often strike Belgium in February.
Formerly known as Omloop Het Volk, the merging of the Flemish newspapers means the race is named after the Flemish Het Nieuwsblad newspaper.
With Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne on the Sunday, Omloop Het Nieuwsblad forms one part of what's widely known as the Belgian 'Opening Weekend'.
Jean Bogaerts was the first winner and Belgians have gone on to dominate the race, with only 20 winners from outside the home nation.
Three Belgians - Ernest Sterckx, Joseph Bruyère, Peter Van Petegem - hold the joint record of three victories.
Omloop Het Nieuwsblad race route
Omloop Het Nieuwsblad begins in Ghent, inside the Het Kuipke velodrome, creating a unique party atmosphere.
After the early Kerkgate – Jagerij climbs, the Molenberg will once again open the final of the race.
At 42 km from the finish, the cobbled climb in Zwalm is followed by the third passage over the duo Haaghoek-Leberg, that often play a key role in the race
The Berendries is also be included, before the race head towards Geraardsbergen for the final circuit and the double whammy of the Muur van Geraardsbergen and Bosberg climbs.
