All-Out Showdown
January 21 st 2026 - 13:00
The climbs that lead from Liège to Bastogne, and above all from Bastogne back to Liège, have long been part of the heritage of the Ardennes, of Belgium, and of the wider cycling world. On the route of the 2026 edition, the 112th “Doyenne”, all the climbs are well known: Saint-Roch, the traditional opener; Haussire, brought back into the spotlight in 2025 with its stele dedicated to Claudy Criquielion; the infernal trilogy of Wanne – Stockeu – Haute-Levée, followed by the Col du Rosier; Le Maquisard and Desnié, paired together for the first time; and the grand finale towards the Quai des Ardennes, beyond La Redoute, Les Forges and La Roche-aux-Faucons.
These eleven names feed our springtime fantasies and cherished memories. They raise the Liège Monument to fiery heights, a Classic with elevation worthy of a major mountain stage. And yet, the altitude never exceeds 650 metres. The ascent of the Col de Haussire, reputed to be the hardest climb in Belgium, is barely four kilometres long.
In truth, there is no decisive climb, no stretch of road that one knows will necessarily determine the outcome. Since 1892, it has been the succession of difficulties over more than 250 kilometres that allows champions to rise to Liège glory.
In recent years, there have been two champions: Tadej Pogacar (winner in 2021, 2024 and 2025) and Remco Evenepoel (2022, 2023). Fond of all-out racing, the two superstars enjoy going head to head but, despite their complete domination in Liège, their Ardennes showdown has never truly taken place. They are not the type to hide, however, preferring instead to launch long-range attacks on the slopes of La Redoute.
If the stars align, there is no doubt they will engage in an all-out battle which—such is the magic of La Doyenne—may also open the door to other champions. In 1976, exactly half a century ago, the Liège native Joseph Bruyère triumphed on home soil. He was supposed to pave the way for Eddy Merckx, already a five-time winner. But the lieutenant had worked so effectively at undermining his rivals in the Wanne – Stockeu – Haute-Levée trilogy that the favourites never saw him again. In 2026 once more, surprises may come from anywhere.
Christian PRUDHOMME
Director of Cycling
