Paris Roubaix 2024: Cycling Race Preview
The Tour of Flanders has recently concluded, but another exciting classic race is already lined up. On Sunday, April 7th, the cyclists will gather once again in northern France for the highly anticipated Paris-Roubaix.
Will Mathieu van der Poel be able to replicate his previous triumph, or will there be other strong contenders in the mix? After his impressive victory in the Tour of Flanders, he is undoubtedly the frontrunner. In the women’s race, Lotte Kopecky, who has yet to win Paris-Roubaix, enters as the top favorite, just like last year.
How the Course Looks Like
The cycling race kicks off in Compiègne, situated around 80 kilometers northeast of Paris. This place is renowned for its cobblestone paths, which will definitely pose a challenge for the riders. There are a total of 29 cobblestone sections, with the first one making an appearance after almost a hundred kilometers. Each section is labeled from 29 to 1, with stars indicating their level of difficulty. Only three sections have been awarded a 5-star rating, signifying the highest level of difficulty.
The first challenging section is the Trouée d’Arenberg or Forest of Wallers, spanning 2.3 kilometers and located 95 kilometers from the finish line. Following that is Mons-en-Pévèle, a 3-kilometer stretch positioned 48 kilometers from the finish line. The final and most famous cobblestone section is the Carrefour de l’Arbre, which is 2 kilometers long and positioned 17 kilometers from the finish line. Typically, the outcome of the race is determined on these sections. The finish line is equally legendary: on the Roubaix track, riders must complete another lap and a half before crossing the finish line.
Who are the Favourites of Paris Roubaix 2024?
After his triumph in the Tour of Flanders, Mathieu van der Poel is once again considered a top contender here. The Dutch cyclist from Alpecin-Deceuninck made a decisive move last year, leaving his rival Wout van Aert behind after van Aert experienced a flat tire. It’s been eight years since someone managed to win both the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix in the same year, with Fabian Cancellara being the last to achieve this remarkable feat. This year, Van der Poel has the potential to replicate that success. With van Aert out of the picture, the path seems clearer for him, although the treacherous cobblestone sections pose a threat to all riders, and there are certainly plenty of strong competitors.
Jasper Philipsen, Van der Poel’s teammate at Alpecin-Deceuninck, could also play a significant role in the race. Philipsen finished second last year and naturally aims to improve upon that result. The winner of Milan-San Remo made the decision to skip the Tour of Flanders in order to better prepare for Paris-Roubaix.
The big question remains how the other two major teams, Visma/Lease a Bike and Lidl-Trek, will fare. Without Wout van Aert, Matteo Jorgenson from Visma/Lease a Bike might have a chance to shine. At Lidl-Trek, they may rely on Mads Pedersen. Other notable favorites include Stefan Küng, Filippo Ganna, and John Degenkolb. Perhaps Soudal Quick-Step could also be in contention for victory with riders like Yves Lampaert or Gianni Moscon.
Bet on Paris Roubaix 2024
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