TBV Ready for Key Cobbled Test at E3 Saxo Classic

# Bahrain Victorious Prepares for a Pivotal Challenge at E3 Saxo Classic

As the cobbled Classics season intensifies, Bahrain Victorious is gearing up for the highly anticipated E3 Saxo Classic, set to take place on Friday, March 27, in Harelbeke. Often regarded as the first major assessment for classics specialists ahead of the Tour of Flanders, this year marks the 68th edition of the race, covering 208 kilometers that include 16 short but steep climbs and nine challenging cobbled sectors, culminating in an elevation gain of approximately 3,000 meters.

The route weaves through the heart of Flanders, passing through renowned cycling towns including Waregem, Oudenaarde, and Geraardsbergen. The 2026 edition has introduced significant enhancements, adding to the race’s difficulty with the inclusion of the E3-Col (1.2 km at 6%), which competitors will tackle twice—first after about 113 kilometers and again in the final 35 kilometers. The critical phase of the race commences shortly after the initial E3-Col ascent, with the first approach to the Oude Kwaremont from an alternate side.

After this crucial section, the race continues along its traditional path, incorporating pivotal climbs like Hotondberg, Kortekeer, Taaienberg, and Eikenberg, where the peloton is likely to fragment. The decisive moments arise in the last 40 kilometers, featuring the renowned Paterberg–Oude Kwaremont combination, followed by another passage over the E3-Col and the final incline of Tiegemberg, just 20 kilometers from the finish line.

Sports Director Nikolas Maes shared insights into the team’s strategy, stating, “E3 is known as one of the hardest races of the Classics, just behind Flanders. We are building our race around Alec Segaert and Matej Mohorič, with the goal of positioning them as well as possible before the key sections. Zak Erzen and Kamil Gradek will focus on positioning towards the key point, together with Daniel Skerl and Oliver Stockwell, while Attila Valter will look for opportunities in the breakaway.”

Maes emphasized the significance of the restructured parcours, noting, “Even if the parcour has been slightly redesigned, the crucial zone remains the same with the combination of Kortekeer, Taaienberg and the climbs that follow. We hope our leaders can come through this section in a good position and be in the mix for the finale. The team is well balanced, and the Classics campaign so far is going in the right direction.”

Matej Mohorič expressed his enthusiasm ahead of the event, saying, “I’ve been feeling good in the last Classics, so I’m looking forward to being back in Belgium for more hard racing. I’ve had a strong result here before, with a top five, so I’d like to aim for something similar.”

Alec Segaert, returning to competition with renewed determination following his victory at GP Denain, added, “I’m really looking forward to this big block of Classics. With a win already and strong performances from the team, I’m confident we can have a good campaign. I’m also excited to experience the crowds again on the Flemish hills.”

With a well-prepared lineup and a strategic approach, Bahrain Victorious is aiming for a strong performance as the E3 Saxo Classic looms on the horizon.