La Flèche Wallonne
The La Flèche Wallonne is a UCI WorldTour one day race held in the Wallonia region of Belgium. As the second race of the prestigious Ardennes Classics week, it is defined by its repeated climbs and its legendary uphill finish on the Mur de Huy. First held in 1936, it is one of the oldest and most iconic races on the cycling calendar.
When was the first edition of La Flèche Wallonne?
The first edition of the La Flèche Wallonne was held in 1936, with Belgian rider Philémon De Meersman taking victory in the inaugural race.
How did La Flèche Wallonne come into existence?
The race was created in 1936 by the Belgian newspaper Les Sports as a counterpart to the Tour of Flanders, aiming to establish a major classic in the French speaking part of Belgium. Over time, it became a cornerstone of the Ardennes Classics week, sitting between the Amstel Gold Race and Liège–Bastogne–Liège, and gaining global recognition for its dramatic uphill finish.
Who has won La Flèche Wallonne the most times?
Alejandro Valverde has the record for most victories with five wins between 2006 and 2017.
What makes La Flèche Wallonne unique?
Unlike many other classics, the La Flèche Wallonne is almost always decided on a single climb: the Mur de Huy. This brutally steep ascent, with gradients exceeding 20 percent, demands perfect timing and explosive power. Riders must conserve energy throughout the race to unleash a decisive effort in the final kilometres, making it one of the most predictable yet dramatic finishes in professional cycling.
Where is La Flèche Wallonne held?
The race takes place in the Wallonia region of Belgium, traditionally finishing on the Mur de Huy in the town of Huy.
