The 2025 Paris–Roubaix, held on April 13, delivered a gripping spectacle marked by historic achievements, intense rivalries, and unforeseen drama. Dutch cyclist Mathieu van der Poel secured his third consecutive victory in this storied one-day race, joining the elite ranks of Octave Lapize and Francesco Moser as the only riders to achieve such a feat.
The 122nd edition of the "Hell of the North" spanned 259.2 kilometers from Compiègne to the Roubaix Velodrome, featuring 30 cobbled sectors totaling 55.3 kilometers. Organizers introduced two new cobbled sections and replaced the controversial chicane before the notorious Trouée d’Arenberg with a series of right-angle turns to enhance rider safety.
The race commenced under wet and slippery conditions, leading to numerous crashes and mechanical issues. A pivotal moment occurred 38 kilometers from the finish when world champion Tadej Pogačar suffered a crash and subsequent bike change, allowing van der Poel to launch a decisive solo attack. Despite a late puncture, van der Poel maintained his lead, crossing the finish line 1 minute and 18 seconds ahead of Pogačar, with Mads Pedersen securing third place.
The race was marred by an alarming incident when van der Poel was struck in the face by a full water bottle thrown by a spectator while leading solo. The Dutchman described the act as "attempted manslaughter," prompting legal action. The assailant later surrendered to Belgian police, and French authorities have initiated an investigation into the attack.
In the women's race held on April 12, French cyclist Pauline Ferrand-Prévot made history by becoming the first French woman to win Paris–Roubaix Femmes. She executed a successful solo attack, finishing with a comfortable lead over Letizia Borghesi and Lorena Wiebes.
