Mattias Skjelmose seizes unexpected victory in the Amstel Gold Race as he catches up to Tadej Pogacar's attack and edges him out for the top spot
Mattias Skjelmose Stuns Cycling World to Win 2025 Amstel Gold Race
In a thrilling finish that will be remembered for years to come, Mattias Skjelmose of Lidl-Trek clinched victory at the 2025 Amstel Gold Race. The 24-year-old Danish rider outfoxed two of cycling’s biggest stars, Tadej Pogačar and Remco Evenepoel, in a nail-biting sprint finish.
The 255 km Amstel Gold Race, held across the south of the Netherlands, featured difficult terrain suited to climbers and punchy riders. For much of the race, Pogačar, the reigning world champion, made a bold solo attack. However, he eventually tired from the effort, paving the way for Skjelmose to capitalize.
Lidl-Trek supported Skjelmose effectively throughout the race, positioning him well in the chase group. In the final sprint, he demonstrated superior timing and power, outpacing Pogačar and Evenepoel.
This win marked a significant milestone in Skjelmose’s career, further establishing him as a top all-around talent in professional cycling. Prior to this victory, he had already won important stage races like the Tour de Suisse and was building a reputation for consistent performance in both stage races and classics.
The Amstel Gold Race victory was Skjelmose’s biggest and most stunning career win to date. After the race, he dedicated his victory to his grandfather who had passed away last month.
The race was not without its dramatic moments. Julian Alaphilippe (Tudor) initiated a late attack with 48km remaining, but the trio of Skjelmose, Evenepool, and Pogačar managed to reel him in. The final ascent of the Cauberg was ridden conservatively, with all three banking on the final sprint.
In the final kilometres, Skjelmose initially led a bid to claw back a solo move by Pogačar. The gap between Pogačar and the chasers was back in single digits with 10km to go, and Remco Evenepoel joined Skjelmose in the pursuit. An eight-rider move formed in the first half of the race, but was cancelled out entirely inside 70km to go.
The race was decided by a photo-finish image, with Skjelmose winning by the width of a wheel rim. Lidl-Trek took control of the race and rolled at more than 44km/h through the Dutch hills. Evenepoel made the difference on the penultimate ascent of the Cauberg, reducing Pogačar's lead to 20 seconds.
This victory enhances Skjelmose’s profile as a "giant-killer" able to take victories against established Grand Tour winners and classics contenders. It confirms his evolution from promising climber and stage racer to a complete rider capable of winning prestigious one-day races.
In a sport where the spotlight often shines on the same faces, Skjelmose's 2025 Amstel Gold triumph was a defining moment showcasing his versatility and tactical prowess. He continues to prove himself as a force to be reckoned with in professional cycling.
Skjelmose's victory in the 2025 Amstel Gold Race, a prestigious one-day race in professional sports, showcases his versatility and tactical prowess, setting him apart as a force to be reckoned with in the sport of cycling. This win, against established Grand Tour winners and classics contenders, further cements his status as a "giant-killer" in sports.
