The ASO has announced the wildcard teams for both the Fleche Wallonne and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. For the first time, ‘La Doyenne’ will also feature a Women’s WorldTour event from Bastogne to Ans.
Seven teams have received invitations for each of the two races. Cofidis, Direct Energie, Sport Vlaanderen-Baloise, Wanty Groupe-Gobert, WB Veranclassic and Aqua Blue Sport are among those taking part in both.
The remaining invitee for the Fleche Wallone is Fortuneo-Vital Concept while Roompot-Nederlandse Loterij of the Netherlands is set to take part in the Liege-Bastogne-Liege.
The ASO made waves in 2016 when it made changes to the traditional route, including a short cobbled climb, the Côte de la Rue Naniot, with less than 3km to go. However, many thought that change made for a great race last year. This year the ASO will continue to add variety to the course by using the Côte de Pont, Côte de Belleveaux and Côte de la Ferme Libert climbs in place of the Côte de Wanne and Côte de la Haute-Levée.
The 135.5km women’s race route includes four major climbs: Côte de la Vecquée, Côte de la Redoute, Côte de la Roche-aux-Faucons, and Côte de Saint-Nicolas.
