The 123rd edition of the Paris-Roubaix, often referred to as the “Hell of the North,” is set to take place on Sunday, April 12, 2026. This iconic one-day race is renowned for its challenging cobblestone sectors and unpredictable weather conditions, making it a true test of a cyclist’s endurance and skill.
Race Overview
The race will commence in Compiègne and conclude at the Roubaix Velodrome, covering a total distance of 258.3 kilometers. Participants will navigate 30 cobblestone sectors, amounting to 54.8 kilometers of rough terrain. Notably, the organizers have introduced a new 800-meter uphill cobblestone section near Biastre, designed to challenge riders early in the race.
Key Cobblestone Sectors
The race features several legendary cobblestone sectors that often determine the outcome:
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Trouée d’Arenberg (2,300 meters): A narrow, forested path where riders can lose everything if not cautious.
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Mons-en-Pévèle (3,000 meters): A slight uphill stretch approximately 50 kilometers from the finish, serving as a tactical crossroads.
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Carrefour de l’Arbre (2,100 meters): The final significant cobblestone challenge, located 17 kilometers from the velodrome.
Race Favorites and Outsiders
The 2026 Paris-Roubaix is expected to be a thrilling contest, with several riders standing out:
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Mathieu van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck): The Dutch powerhouse has dominated the race in recent years, securing victories in 2023, 2024, and 2025. A fourth consecutive win would place him alongside legends like Roger De Vlaeminck and Tom Boonen.
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Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates): The Slovenian champion is eager to avenge his second-place finish in 2025. After a triumphant performance at the Tour of Flanders, Pogačar is poised to challenge for the top spot.
Other notable contenders include Mads Pedersen (Lidl-Trek), Wout van Aert (Team Visma | Lease a Bike), and Filippo Ganna (Ineos Grenadiers). Ganna’s power makes him a formidable force on the cobblestones, provided he avoids mechanical issues.
Women’s Race (Paris-Roubaix Femmes)
The sixth edition of the women’s race will kick off in Denain, covering 143.7 kilometers with 33.7 kilometers of cobblestone sectors across 17 sections. While the women won’t tackle the Arenberg Forest, they will face the challenging Mons-en-Pévèle and Carrefour de l’Arbre sectors.
Women’s Race Favorites and Outsiders
Key contenders for the women’s race include:
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Pauline Ferrand-Prévot: The defending champion is a formidable force, having secured victory in 2025 with a memorable solo attack on the cobblestones of Camphin-en-Pévèle.
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Lotte Kopecky and the SD Worx Team: The 2024 champion leads a strong Dutch squad, with Lorena Wiebes (third in 2025) ready to capitalize if the race remains together.
Italian riders Letizia Borghesi and Elisa Longo Borghini are also strong contenders. Borghesi’s impressive second-place finish in 2025 positions her as a serious threat, while Longo Borghini’s 2022 victory and tactical acumen make her a formidable opponent.
Broadcast Information
The Paris-Roubaix 2026 will be broadcast live on various platforms:
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Rai 2: Live coverage starting at 14:45 CEST.
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Eurosport 1 and 2: Comprehensive coverage available for subscribers.
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Streaming: The race will be available on RaiPlay, Discovery+, HBO Max, Eurosport Player, and DAZN.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to the official Paris-Roubaix website.
As the race approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be another epic edition of the Paris-Roubaix, where legends are made on the unforgiving cobblestones.