Tuesday 14 October until Sunday19 October 2025 - NIBC Tour of Holland

The NIBC Tour of Holland is back on the calendar and promises an exciting battle for the overall classification with six diverse stages. With a route that begins with a prologue in The Hague and takes in time trials, the Limburg hills, the VAM-berg, and a gravel stage around Arnhem, this stage race is perfect for well-rounded riders who can both time trial and climb and who aren't afraid of a nerve-racking finale or Dutch echelon stage.

The Tour opens with a short prologue in The Hague's Zuiderpark. The prologue is a discipline in which strong time trialists and fast riders can immediately gain a small lead. This is followed by a flat stage in Dordrecht, offering opportunities for sprinters. On day three, a 15-kilometer time trial takes place in Etten-Leur. This time trial is another key moment for riders with chronometer talent. From day four onwards, the focus shifts to strong hill climbers and punchers: a Limburg stage with short, sharp climbs, a tough VAM mountain stage with twelve passages over the Drenthe hill, and a closing gravel stage near Arnhem. This is where the biggest time differences will be created, especially if the race is driven by hard-packed Classics-oriented teams.

The battle for the general classification seems to be primarily a matter for strong time trialists who can also handle hilly terrain. Riders who are good at both time trials and short, explosive climbs and who can hold their own in potential echelon stages have an advantage here. Classics specialists with a strong finish also have a chance, especially in the tough stages of the final weekend. Furthermore, explosive sprinters could play a role if the finals are less selective and if bonus seconds are up for grabs along the way, for example through Red Bull kilometers with additional bonus elements. The general classification is expected to be largely determined during the time trials, but the Limburg stage, the VAM mountain day, and the Arnhem gravel stage will be the deciding factors. Teams with multiple strong points will try to control the race, while weather conditions and echelons can completely disrupt the course. Riders who are versatile and can handle the full spectrum of Dutch autumn races will have a clear advantage.

In short: expect a thrilling battle between fast all-rounders and punchers, with versatility and team tactics being the deciding factor in determining the overall winner.