Scheldeprijs 2026: Dylan Groenewegen the Top Favourite? All Eyes on Schoten | Sprinter’s Gala in Terneuzen
The most beautiful sprinter's party of the cycling season is back on the menu. Today, the fastest men in the world roll through the streets of Terneuzen and Schoten for the 114th edition of the Scheldeprijs 2026. And trust me, this is an edition you cannot afford to miss for even a second. The tension is palpable: will we witness Dutch dominance, or will one of the Belgians take the flowers?
Why this Scheldeprijs is different from all the rest
Let’s start at the beginning: the start. For the eighth time in history, the peloton departs from Terneuzen, in Zeelandic Flanders. And I need to pause here, because this might just be the last time. Talks about a future without the Zeeland start haven’t died down yet, so soak in that departure from the Scheldekwartier. As soon as the flag drops, a classic course of over 205 kilometres awaits. The riders first dive into the Western Scheldt Tunnel, after which the real racing begins on the windy dikes of Walcheren and South Beveland. This year, the wind isn’t quite perfect for echelon formation, so expect a mass sprint. And what a sprint it will be!
Dylan Groenewegen: The man to beat
To be honest, there’s only one true top favourite this year: Dylan Groenewegen. The Dutchman from Unibet Rockets is in blistering form. He recently won the Tour of Bruges, where he simply outfoxed Jasper Philipsen. But what makes the story even better? Behind his shoulders is none other than Marcel Kittel. Yes, you read that right. The German, record holder with five wins in Schoten, is his sprint coach this season. Kittel has completely revived Groenewegen. That’s the secret weapon. That experience combined with that killer instinct. I’m putting him at the top of the list.
- Dylan Groenewegen: The man in red-hot form, guided by a five-time winner.
- Jasper Philipsen: Two-time winner, hungry to grab a third after finishing second twice.
- Tim Merlier: The reigning champion, just back from a knee injury but always dangerous.
- Jordi Meeus: Perhaps the underdog who can spring a big surprise if the top sprinters wear each other out.
Tim Merlier vs. Jasper Philipsen: The Belgian duel
Of course, we can’t forget the Belgians. Tim Merlier wears number 1. He won the last two editions, but is just returning after a nasty knee injury. He says he’s taking it easy, but that’s classic Merlier. As soon as that finish arch comes into view, he shifts to another level. And then there’s Jasper Philipsen. The "Flame of Ham" won here in 2021 and 2023. The last two years, he’s had to acknowledge Merlier as his better. That must still sting. Expect an explosive sprint between these two, with Groenewegen right in the middle.
Women and enthusiasts also get their due
And please, don’t forget the 2026 Scheldeprijs women. The race has been promoted to the UCI ProSeries, reflecting the growing status of women’s cycling. The elite women start later in the day in Schoten. And I haven’t even mentioned you folks yet. Because early in the morning, cycling tourists will be brave enough to take part in the Scheldeprijs Cyclo. Even that lap over the cobbles of Broekstraat? Now those are real heroes.
In short, get ready. The coffee is brewing. Whether you’re watching for Groenewegen’s glory, Philipsen’s revenge, or just for the stunning visuals of those trains racing along the Scheldt: the 2026 Scheldeprijs promises to be a spectacle.