The Pioneering Spirit of Paris – Roubaix

Paris – Roubaix is a race like no other, defined by its rich history, challenging cobbled terrain, passionate fans, iconic velodrome finish, and symbolic showers. It’s a pinnacle of cycling that demands resilience and determination to reach the velodrome. Regardless of experience, the excitement remains the same for riders like Guillaume Boivin, who achieved an impressive ninth place in the treacherous conditions of 2021, and neo-pro Taj Jones, set to make his debut in this legendary race.

“I got quite sick in the last weeks so I’ve had to readjust my goals a bit. But Paris – Roubaix is a race I have been thinking about the whole winter,” admits Boivin.

“I know it suits my qualities quite well and that’s what motivated me to get through the sickness. My legs aren’t top but they’re not bad either. Firstly, I want to stay safe and avoid punctures and problems and then we’ll see where we end up. I still have a tiny bit of hope to be at the front and somewhere in the top ten. I wouldn’t be here if there wasn’t a little bit of hope.”

“I wouldn’t be here if there wasn’t a little bit of hope.”

IPT has faced challenges with illnesses and injuries in the cobbled classics season. Tomorrow, in Compiègne, the team will compete with six riders. Despite the setbacks, Sports Director and 1988 winner Dirk Demol emphasizes the team’s unwavering motivation to conquer the cobbles.

“It’s clear we haven’t had the cobbled classics season we expected but Paris – Roubaix has always been one of our biggest goals, especially after the great results we achieved last year,” says Dirk.

“We may not be lining up with a favorite but we have six motivated riders who have the opportunity to take the race on. Obviously Guillaume Boivin did a great race last year, so he will be our team leader for tomorrow and have the support of Rudy Barbier, Jenthe Biermans, Reto Hollenstein, Taj Jones, and Mads Würtz Schmidt. We’ll keep our eyes out for the breakaway and take any chance we can to be in the race.”

Paris – Roubaix (17/04)

Riders: Rudy Barbier (FRA), Jenthe Biermans (BEL), Guillaume Boivin (CAN), Reto Hollenstein (SUI), Taj Jones (AUS), Mads Würtz Schmidt (DEN)

Sports Directors: Dirk Demol (BEL), Eric Van Lancker (BEL), Steve Bauer (CAN)