The Eddy Merckx Cycling Route in Flemish Brabant, long considered a must for cyclists seeking challenges, is getting a makeover. The original loop route - at Merckx's own desire and with his consultation - now doubles to a total of 150 km and is enriched with stages linked to the Cannibal's professional and personal life.

The journey starts from Eddy Merckx's statue, in front of his birthplace in Meensel-Kiezegem. Riders will zoom past the exciting mural paying tribute to his legendary career (one of 10 in a project honoring cycling heroes). The street art is rich with references to his successes, and keen observers will discover the cyclist's nicknames, incorporated into the background like newspaper headlines. The route continues along the roads where young Merckx became passionate about two wheels, conquering one slope after another and winning his first local races.

The route is challenging, but the landscape is one of the most beautiful in the region: the Vlooyberg tower, Horst Castle, the wine slopes of Houwaart, and the orchards of the Hageland region. A true challenge for those with strong legs and the best way to celebrate one of the greatest cyclists of all time, who today, June 17th, turns 90.

The Cannibal on Display in the Cycling Mecca of Oudenaarde
The Centrum Ronde van Vlaanderen in Oudenaarde, a center dedicated to cycling and a symbolic location for enthusiasts, honors Eddy Merckx's 90th birthday with a mini-exhibition entirely dedicated to his extraordinary sporting career. From his first pedal strokes to his legendary races, Merckx achieved 525 victories. Visitors can admire the cyclist's impressive list of honors in detail, through a series of video clips, articles, and memorabilia.

From June 7 to December 31, 2025.

More information: Eddy Merckx Cycling Route 150km | Visit Vlaams-Brabant
www.crvv.be