The queen stage of the Renewi Tour 2026 delivered everything cycling fans could hope for. After a spectacular day featuring the iconic Mur de Geraardsbergen and Bosberg climbs, Jenno Berckmoes emerged victorious. The Lotto Intermarché rider attacked in the finale, dropped his last remaining companion Alec Segaert and crossed the line alone on the Vesten. The stage win, combined with valuable bonus seconds, also earned him the overall race lead.
Tough day in the Flemish Ardennes
The third stage proved worthy of its status as the key stage of the week. Narrow roads, steep climbs and changing weather conditions created a demanding and nervous race from start to finish.
After Jonathan Milan’s withdrawal, still suffering from injuries sustained in Stage 2, the race was disrupted by another significant crash in the run-in to the penultimate ascent of the Mur de Geraardsbergen.
Several riders were involved, including Magnus Sheffield, Tiesj Benoot and Vlad Van Mechelen. For Benoot and Van Mechelen, the incident unfortunately brought their Renewi Tour to an early end.
Berckmoes and Segaert make their move
The decisive move came on the final local circuit. Over the top of the Mur de Geraardsbergen, Berckmoes proved one of the strongest riders in the race and soon found himself away with Alec Segaert.
The two Belgians worked together smoothly and gradually extended their advantage over a fragmented peloton. Behind them, the favourites struggled to organise an effective chase.
Race leader Jasper Philipsen showed impressive resilience on terrain that did not necessarily suit his strengths and remained in contention throughout the finale.
Victory on the Vesten
On the finishing climb towards the Vesten, Berckmoes launched the decisive move. Segaert could no longer follow, and the Lotto Intermarché rider quickly opened a gap.
From that moment on, the outcome was never really in doubt. Berckmoes soloed to a memorable victory while the chasing group battled for the remaining podium places.
Philipsen secured second place ahead of defending champion Arnaud De Lie, collecting valuable bonus seconds in the process.
Jenno Berckmoes reaction
“This is a very special win for me. I love racing in Geraardsbergen and I’ve always enjoyed this kind of terrain. Once Alec and I got clear, we knew we had a chance, but there was still a long way to go.”
“I felt strong on the final ascent of the Mur and gave everything on the Vesten. Winning the stage is incredible, but taking the leader’s jersey makes it even more special.”
With two stages remaining, the battle for overall victory remains wide open heading into Bilzen-Hoeselt and the final stage in Leuven.
