Cycling: After Milan-Sanremo, , the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix the fourth monument of the year is on the program on Sunday. With the classic Liège-Bastogne-Liège, the weeks of the well-known one-day races end. A gripping exchange of blows is expected, because we cannot identify a clear favourite.
From Liège to Ans: 258 kilometers & 10 climbs
Liège-Bastogne-Liège will close as usual after Amstel Gold Race and the Walloon Arrow the week of the three Ardennes classics. The oldest monument in cycling could once again be one of the most exciting races of the season. Last year Surprisingly, Wout Poels won the doyenne in a captivating contest. In 2017, Liège-Bastogne-Liège will be held for the 103rd time. In 1892, pilots competed for victory here for the first time. Also on Sunday it is important to master the very hilly profile through the Wallonian Ardennes. Not only are the ten climbs a big challenge, but the 258 kilometers are also a big challenge for many drivers. The decisive phase begins 35,5 kilometers from the finish with the Côte de La Redoute (2,0 km with 8,9%), followed by the Côte de La Roche-aux-Faucon (1,3 km with 11,0% ) and from the Côte de Saint-Nicolas (1,2 km with 8,6%).
Numerous winning candidates promise an exciting race
Both in the Preview of the Amstel Gold Race, as well as in the Preview of the Flèche Wallonne we predicted the eventual winner. At Liège-Bastogne-Liège, predictions are more difficult. The race is too open. Many drivers are potential winners. In addition, Liège-Bastogne-Liège is often a tactical race. One of the favorites must be Alejandro Valverde (Movistar) after his performance on Wednesday. He could give himself an early birthday present because two days later he will be 37 years old. Also worth mentioning is Daniel Martin (Quick-Step Floors). The Irishman won here in 2013 and was in good shape with a second place finish at the Flèche Wallonne. His teammates Philippe Gilbert and Julian Alaphilippe are absent. As a result, his team is severely weakened. After all, he doesn't have to share the role of captain. In addition to Michal Kwiatkowski (Sky), the Swiss Michael Albasini (Orica-Scott) and Olympic champion Greg Van Avermaet (BMC) should also be mentioned.
