American Neilson Powless Outsmarts Team Visma to win Dwars Door Vlaanderen

In a stunning display of strategy and endurance, American cyclist Neilson Powless clinched victory at the prestigious Dwars Door Vlaanderen on Wednesday, outmaneuvering Wout van Aert and his Team Visma in a dramatic finale

The 184.2 km race, known for its challenging cobblestone sections and steep climbs, saw Powless celebrate a career-defining moment as he crossed the finish line ahead of the Dutch outfit’s formidable trio.

As the race unfolded, Team Visma, featuring Van Aert, Matteo Jorgenson, and Tiesj Benoot, made a decisive break in the final hour, seemingly positioning themselves for a dominant finish. However, Powless remained resolute, maintaining close contact with the leading group. In a bold move, he launched his sprint early on the approach to Waregem, surprising his competitors and securing the win.

“This is the win of my life,” exclaimed an ecstatic Powless at the finish line, surrounded by jubilant teammates. “I just can’t believe it. I sprinted for second place, never thinking I’d beat Wout.”

Van Aert, who faced a disappointing outcome in last year’s edition of the race, expressed his frustration following the event. After a season marred by misfortune, including a fall that hindered his performance, the Belgian cyclist was left to ponder the impact of his strategic decisions. “It was me who made the call for the sprint. I was confident I could win, but in the sprint, I cramped completely,” he admitted, visibly dejected as he crossed the line with his head low.

Despite the setback, Van Aert's teammate Jorgenson, who won the race in Van Aert's absence last year, finished in fourth place, showcasing the strength of Team Visma. However, the day belonged to Powless, whose tactical prowess and determination shone through in the face of adversity.

The victory marks a significant milestone for Powless, particularly as he prepares for the upcoming Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix, two of cycling’s most prestigious one-day races. With this win, he has established himself as a formidable contender.

VIDEO: 2025 Dwars Door Vlaanderen Finish

2025 Dwars Door Vlaanderen Top 10

1  Powless Neilson EF Education-EasyPost 03:57:14
2  van Aert Wout Team Visma | Lease a Bike + 00
3  Benoot Tiesj Team Visma | Lease a Bike + 00
4  Jorgenson Matteo Team Visma | Lease a Bike + 05
5  Pedersen Mads Lidl-Trek + 45
6  Del Grosso Tibor Alpecin-Deceuninck + 45
7  De Bondt Dries Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale + 47
8  Livyns Arjen Lotto + 47
9  Küng Stefan Groupama-FDJ + 47
10  Segaert Alec Lotto + 47