Ronde van Brugge 2026
25.03
Dylan Groenewegen claimed victory at the Ronde van Brugge after a chaotic day shaped by crosswinds and repeated echelon splits. The race saw multiple regroupings and late attacks before being decided in a bunch sprint in Brugge. Groenewegen finished it off for Unibet Rose Rockets, securing both his third straight win and the team’s first WorldTour victory.
How to watch
Curious about how to watch the 2026 Ronde van Brugge? Discover it in our complete how-to-watch guide, featuring a full overview of all broadcasters and streaming options.
Route
The 2026 Ronde van Brugge takes place over 202.5 kilometres on a flat course that starts and finishes in Bruges. The route is designed as a combination of two large loops through West Flanders, blending inland roads with more exposed sections closer to the coast. While there are no significant climbs, the open terrain ensures that wind will play a decisive role, with teams constantly fighting for position to avoid splits in the peloton.
A southern loop takes the riders through towns such as Torhout, Wingene and Beernem before returning toward Bruges. The northern loop, which is covered multiple times, passes through Damme and surrounding areas, featuring the only cobbled section of the race. However, this sector is unlikely to decide the outcome on its own. The finish is located on a wide, straight avenue just outside the city centre, designed to provide a safe and controlled lead in for a likely bunch sprint.
Read more about the route in our preview.
With its flat profile and predictable finale, the Ronde van Brugge is set up as a showcase for the world’s best sprinters. Jasper Philipsen starts as one of the leading contenders after showing strong early season form, while Dylan Groenewegen arrives with confidence following recent victories. Defending champion Sebastián Molano also returns, bringing both experience and proven finishing speed to the race.
Beyond the headline names, the start list is packed with fast finishers capable of challenging for victory. Riders like Pavel Bittner, Sam Welsford and Phil Bauhaus add depth to the sprint field, while teams with strong lead out trains will be crucial in shaping the final kilometres.
There is also room for surprises, especially if crosswinds disrupt the peloton and create smaller groups. In that scenario, powerful all rounders and opportunists could challenge the pure sprinters and turn the race into a more unpredictable contest.
Read more in our preview and explore the start list via this link.
