2018 Amstel Gold Race Men’s Replay

The last 85km of the stunning 2018 Amstel Gold Race.

Out with the cobbles and in with the climbs—that is the theme of Ardennes Week. 

The Ardennes Classics usher in an array of talent, from GC contenders to all-around-sprinter-types. The Amstel Gold Race kicks off the week of classics with 263 kilometers of narrow Dutch roads cresting a total of 35 climbs. 

The climbs are by no means mountains, rarely measuring more than a couple kilometers in length. However, the relentless frequency of climbing, coupled with a constant fight for position along the small, twisting roads, will produce a race of attrition lending itself to a wildly unpredictable finish.

The peloton will pass through the town of Valkenburg for the infamous ascent of the Cauberg three times throughout the race; however, as in 2017, the finish line no longer lies atop the steep pitch.

 Instead, a-16 kilometer finishing circuit awaits the riders after the final ascent of the Cauberg, which sends them up the Geulhemmerberg and the Bemelerberg before arriving at the finish. The course is designed to reduce the capacity of any team to take control of the closing stages of the race, lending itself to a small group, or a well-timed solo attack to win the day.

The Amstel Gold Race requires the positioning expertise of a Classics specialist along with the climbing abilities of the most elite riders in the peloton.

Read our full preview here.