The annual Belgian road cycling race, Gent-Wevelgem, will officially be known as In Flanders Fields – From Middelkerke to Wevelgem from 2026, marking a significant change for the one-day classic. The race, held annually since 1934, has secured both a new start and finish location for the long term.
Even as widely recognized as Gent-Wevelgem, the rebrand reflects a ten-year agreement to begin the 240.8km race on the Belgian coast in Middelkerke. The finish line will remain on Vanackerestraat in Wevelgem, with a deal in place to host the finale until at least 2031. The 2026 edition is scheduled for March 29th.
The route initially heads from Middelkerke to Veurne and the Moeren before entering the Heuvelland region, where the challenging climbs begin. Riders will face the Scherpenberg at 105.8km into the race, followed by the Baneberg and Monteberg. The iconic Kemmelberg, a steep and fully cobbled climb, will feature multiple times, including a final ascent at 35.5km to go.
The race is known for its challenging terrain, including the “Plugstreets” – dirt sections that weave through the landscape – and its proximity to numerous World War I monuments. These monuments are central to the historical significance of the race, lending the event its new name, In Flanders Fields.
The key climbs of the 2026 race are as follows: Scherpenberg (135km), Baneberg (143.8km), Monteberg (149.7km), Kemmelberg (Belvedère) (151.5km), Monteberg (182km), Kemmelberg (Belvedère) (183.8km), Scherpenberg (191.3km), Baneberg (200.1km), and Kemmelberg (Ossuaire) (205.3km).
Gent-Wevelgem, now In Flanders Fields – From Middelkerke to Wevelgem, is part of the UCI World Tour for both men and women, with a women’s event having been held alongside the men’s race since 2012. The race is organized by Flanders Classics, also responsible for the Tour of Flanders.
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