Van der Poel Claims Historic Third Paris-Roubaix Title, Ferrand-Prevot Takes Women's Race

Mathieu van der Poel claimed a historic third consecutive Paris-Roubaix victory after a dramatic race that saw Tadej Pogacar crash out with 37km remaining. Van der Poel, who has now secured eight victories in cycling's prestigious 'Monument' races, narrowly avoided a similar fate during the incident. Pogacar's team had expressed concerns about his participation in Paris-Roubaix, fearing it could jeopardize his chances at the upcoming Tour de France, but his desire to race prevailed. The event featured over 53km of challenging cobbled sections, with Pogacar’s fall marking a turning point that allowed Van der Poel to break away. Additionally, Pauline Ferrand-Prevot made history by becoming the first Frenchwoman to win the Paris-Roubaix Femmes since 1997. The race, known as 'The Hell of the North', is notorious for its grueling conditions and has been a highlight in the cycling calendar since its inception in 1896.