On Sunday 1 March 2026, Kuurne once again showcased the stars of tomorrow. After an animated race, French rider Simon Defrance claimed victory in the 35th edition of Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne Juniors — a result that perfectly reflects the race motto: Where Legends Are Born.
Selective racing on a demanding course
Covering more than 130 kilometres and featuring eight climbs and several cobbled sections, the race quickly turned aggressive. The rolling terrain gradually thinned out the peloton as teams pushed the pace.
In the finale, three riders broke clear: Simon Defrance, Dutchman Tijs Witte and Switzerland’s Antoine Salamin. The trio built a solid advantage and headed to the finish circuit to decide the win among themselves.
Defrance strongest in the sprint
The outcome was decided inside the final 200 metres, where Simon Defrance proved the fastest of the breakaway group to take an impressive victory in Kuurne.
For the young Frenchman, the win marks an important early-season statement and confirms his promising potential.
Top 10 Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne Juniors 2026
- Simon Defrance (FRA)
- Tijs Witte (NED)
- Antoine Salamin (SUI)
- Liam Brugman (NED)
- Mikolaj Legiec (POL)
- Sune De Valck (BEL)
- Jakub Tesarik (CZE)
- Mauro Keppens (BEL)
- Malthe Risbjerg (DEN)
- Mathieu Levaque (FRA)
Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne: Where Legends Are Born
With this victory, Simon Defrance joins the list of young riders who made their breakthrough in Kuurne. Once again, Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne Juniors proves its reputation as a launchpad for future champions.
Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne — Where Legends Are Born.
