19.08.2026 | DIEST – DIEST | STAGE 1

Program

On Wednesday 19 August 2026, the Renewi Tour officially gets underway with the opening stage from Diest to Diest. Following the team presentation on Tuesday evening, cycling fans in and around the Demer City will get their first chance to see the international WorldTour peloton in action. The opening stage takes the riders through the Hageland region and features a varied route with multiple passages through the finish area, allowing spectators to enjoy the race several times before the first stage winner and first leader of the Renewi Tour 2026 are crowned.

Locations

Team presentation: Grote Markt, Diest
Stage start: Grote Markt, Diest
Finish: Nieuwe Dijkstraat, Diest

Program

Team presentation at the start: 11:40 AM – 12:50 PM
Official stage start: 1:00 PM
First passage at the finish: 1:20 PM
Second passage at the finish: 2:45 PM
Third passage at the finish: 4:15 PM
Fourth passage at the finish: 4:35 PM
Fifth passage at the finish: 4:55 PM
Expected finish: 5:15 PM
Podium ceremony: 5:25 PM

Course

The opening stage of the Renewi Tour 2026 takes the peloton through the Hageland region and the wider surroundings of Diest. Here you can discover all available route information.

Start list

Who will line up at the start of the Renewi Tour 2026? You can find the complete startlist here.

Roadbook

Would you like to be fully prepared for your visit to the Renewi Tour? The official roadbook contains all practical information about the event, including the complete schedule, route information and technical details, mobility information and all regulations. The roadbook includes, amongst other things, the full timetable, all route information and technical details, transport information and all the regulations.

Host cities

Diest will host the Grand Départ of the Renewi Tour in 2026 and will also provide the setting for the opening stage. The historic Demer city is a familiar host of major cycling events and offers the ideal backdrop to launch the 21st edition of the Renewi Tour. On Tuesday evening, all teams and riders will be presented to the public before the peloton sets off from Diest on Wednesday for its first day of racing.

“Welcome to Diest, a city built on centuries-old foundations yet the perfect place to enjoy the present. Explorers and bon vivants alike will discover a unique blend of impressive heritage, a vibrant town centre and beautiful natural surroundings. Visit the UNESCO-listed Beguinage, explore the Webbekoms Broek nature reserve or discover how the former military citadel site is being transformed into a lively hub of new businesses. Finish your visit with a local beer and a delicious meal.”

Accessibility

All information to help you visit the Renewi Tour 2026 with ease will be available here soon.

VIP & Hospitality

Experience the opening stage as a VIP

Enjoy the opening stage in style from the VIP Arrivée at the finish in Diest. With a view of the finish line, extensive catering, an open bar and live race coverage, you’ll experience the Renewi Tour from the front row.

VIP Arrivée in Diest