Elite Sprinters to Clash at 92nd Fourmies Grand Prix This Sunday
Fourmies, France - The cycling world turns its attention to Fourmies this Sunday, September 14th, for the 92nd edition of the Grand Prix, a race renowned as the “World Shadows Championship” for sprinters. Supported by the Department of Nord, this event consistently attracts the fastest finishers in the professional peloton, and this year promises to be no exception.
For decades, the Fourmies Grand Prix has served as a crucial proving ground for sprinters, often showcasing talent just below the level of the biggest names competing in Grand Tours. this year’s race features a strong field, with 25 men’s teams confirmed, including 11 WorldTeams and 10 ProTeams - a remarkable 16 of which participated in the recent Tour de France.
The 200-kilometer course winds through the picturesque Bocage Avesnois region, highlighting the local heritage and providing a challenging backdrop for a thrilling sprint finish.
Who to Watch in the Men’s Race:
All eyes will be on defending champions Arvid de Kleijn (tudor Pro Cycling Team, winner in 2024) and Tim Merlier (Soudal Swift-Step, victorious in 2023). However, they’ll face stiff competition from Irish sprinter Sam Bennet (Decathlon Ag2r La Mondiale Team) and Merlier’s teammate, the promising French rider Paul Magnier.
The men’s race is scheduled to begin at 12:35 p.m.local time.
Rising Stars to Compete in the Choralis Fourmies Feminine Classic
The action doesn’t stop with the men’s race.Earlier in the day, at 11:35 a.m., the 6th edition of the Choralis Fourmies Feminine Classic will take place. This rapidly growing event, now classified as UCI ProSeries, boasts an impressive lineup of 23 women’s teams, including 9 WorldTeams.Dutch European champion Lorena Wiebes (Team SD World – Protime) is the clear favorite, but will need to contend with last year’s winner, Italian Silvia Zanardi (Human Powered health), and French champion Marie Le Net (FDJ-Suez). Local hope Victoire Berteau (Cofidis Women team) will also be looking to capitalize on home advantage.
A Boost for Local Tourism & cycling Culture
the nord department recognizes the meaning of the Fourmies Grand Prix, placing it alongside othre prestigious races like the Grand Prix de Denain and paris-Roubaix. “the influence of cycling makes it possible to enhance our heritage and to enhance the richness of our territory,” a department spokesperson stated.
This event not only provides a platform for world-class cycling but also serves as a important economic driver and a celebration of the region’s beauty.
[Image of Men’s Route]
[Image of Women’s Route]
Stay tuned to world-today-news.com for full race coverage, results, and analysis.
SEO Notes:
Keywords: Fourmies Grand Prix, cycling, race, sprinters, Lorena Wiebes, Arvid de Kleijn, Tim Merlier, Choralis Fourmies Feminine Classic, UCI ProSeries, France, nord department.
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