De Zalkerdijk verdwijnt van het parcours van de Ster van Zwolle
Zwolle, zaterdag, 7 maart 2026.
De iconische Zalkerdijk maakt dit jaar geen deel meer uit van de route van de Ster van Zwolle. Door wegwerkzaamheden bij Kampen is de finish verlegd naar de windgevoelige Mastenbroekpolder. Renners krijgen daardoor een compleet ander finalebeeld. Tot nu toe was de Zalkerdijk een vast ritueel in de 65 jaar oude wielerkoers. Favorieten zoals Roy Hoogendoorn en David Dekker moeten zich aanpassen aan de nieuwe omstandigheden. Ook de 38-jarige veteraan Peter Schulting komt van start. De organisatie hoopt met de aanpassing de toekomst van de koers veilig te stellen. Mindere politie-inzet en lagere kosten spelen hierbij een rol. De koers begint op het Grote Kerkplein in Zwolle en eindigt op de Blaloweg.
disappearance of a landmark
The iconic Zalkerdijk has been removed from the route of the 65th edition of the Ster van Zwolle due to roadworks near Kampen [1]. This change alters the traditional finale that had become a hallmark of the race over its 65-year history [1]. Riders now face a revised course through the exposed roads of the Mastenbroekpolder, increasing vulnerability to crosswinds [2]. Organizers confirm the adjustment reduces reliance on police escorts by minimizing travel along provincial roads [3]. The modification marks a shift toward making the event more sustainable and manageable logistically [4].
route changes and logistical adjustments
This year’s 192-kilometer route begins at the Grote Kerkplein in Zwolle and concludes on the familiar Blaloweg [5]. Absence of the Zalkerdijk means the peloton bypasses the stretch across Kampen, redirecting through the Kampereiland and Mastenbroekpolder [3]. The new layout allows organizers to rely on regular traffic controllers rather than extensive police deployment [3]. According to course director Gerben Kroeze, fewer official vehicles and reduced staffing requirements enhance long-term viability [4]. Wind conditions in the polder may still create decisive splits among contenders [5].
contenders adapt to new dynamics
Favorites such as Roy Hoogendoorn, David Dekker, and Mathis Avondts are considered strong candidates despite the altered course [5]. Rick Ottema, winner of the cobbled Exloo race, emerges as a potential threat in split scenarios [1]. Veteran Peter Schulting, aged 38, competes again for Zwolle-based Hanzerenners, marking his thirteenth participation [4]. While past editions saw action on climbs like Luttenberg and Lemelerberg, the flat polder terrain emphasizes team tactics and positioning before the final sprint [5]. Live coverage began at 15:00 CET via RTV Oost and streaming platforms [5].