Pogačar Dominates the Mur: La Flèche Wallonne 2025 Falls to World Champion
Pogačar Powers to Second La Flèche Wallonne Win
On 23 April 2025, the 89th edition of La Flèche Wallonne unfolded over 205.2 km from Ciney to Huy, under cold and rain-soaked conditions. World champion Tadej Pogačar of UAE Team Emirates–XRG delivered a commanding performance, attacking on the final ascent of the Mur de Huy to solo home with the largest winning margin seen here since 2003.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
The Final Climb: Majesty on the Mur de Huy
Despite pre-race expectations of fierce battles between Pogačar, Remco Evenepoel and rising stars like Skjelmose and Vauquelin, it was Pogačar who seized control. Approaching the Mur de Huy, he launched a brutal seated acceleration some 400 meters from the summit. Evenepoel, struggling visibly in the cold and rain, was dropped immediately. Pogačar’s acceleration created an unassailable gap in moments.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Podium Battle and Strong Chase Efforts
Behind him, France’s Kévin Vauquelin managed to distance the small chase group to claim second, finishing 10 seconds behind Pogačar. Great Britain’s Tom Pidcock took third, just two seconds further back. Remco Evenepoel faded to ninth—his Ardennes form dipping unexpectedly. The chase group featured puncheurs and climbers such as Ben Healy, Lenny Martinez and Thibau Nys.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
A Statement Performance from the World Champion
Pogačar’s win—which also marks his second Flèche Wallonne victory after 2023—was a statement of resilience. After near misses at Paris-Roubaix and Amstel Gold, the Slovenian bounced back in impressive fashion. His display under brutal weather made clear that he remains the benchmark among one-day climbers.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Tactics, Terrain, and Brutal Conditions
The route featured 11 categorized climbs and a final circuit around Huy with Côte de Cherave and Mur de Huy. Rain and cold made road surfaces slippery and selective. UAE Emirates protected Pogačar all day, ensuring he remained fresh for the final assault. When the opportunity came, he seized it decisively.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
What This Means for the Ardennes Campaign
With Flèche Wallonne secured, Pogačar heads into Liège‑Bastogne‑Liège in prime condition, eyeing a rare Ardennes double. His consistency now includes podium finishes in six straight Monuments. Meanwhile, challengers like Evenepoel, Vauquelin and Pidcock remain motivated for payback in the hills ahead.:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Conclusion: Power, Precision, Perfection
La Flèche Wallonne 2025 became a showcase of raw power blended with tactical intelligence. On the iconic Mur de Huy, Pogačar made his move and never looked back—his victory a masterclass in how to race a one-day Ardennes classic. For fans and rivals alike, it was a reminder that when Pogačar attacks, races end there.:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
