The world of cycling is abuzz with a surprising calendar change! In a move that has caught many off guard, the iconic Paris-Roubaix races for men and women will share the spotlight on the same day in 2026. But why fix what isn't broken?
The women's Paris-Roubaix, since its inception in 2021, has always had its special day in the sun, taking place on Saturday, leaving Sunday for the men's race. This arrangement has been a hit, giving each event its well-deserved moment to shine.
But here's where it gets controversial: the UCI calendar has decided to shake things up. In 2026, both races will be held on Sunday, April 12, along with the men's under-23 and junior races. This format mirrors other major one-day races like the Tour of Flanders and Liège-Bastogne-Liège, but it's not without its challenges. These races often mean early starts for female riders or lower viewership, though recent experiments by Flanders Classics have shown promise with the women's race following the men's.
While consolidating races might save costs by reducing road closures and policing needs, it also demands more resources. As the Frenchman noted, having all four races on one day will require additional vehicles and staff to manage simultaneous events.
"The Saturday slot was working well, but now viewers can watch the men's race and then tune in for the women's," he explained. And this is the part most people miss: the impact on the viewer experience and the potential for increased visibility for women's cycling.
Matilda, a seasoned journalist with a background in modern languages and sports journalism, brings her expertise in women's cycling to the table. Her extensive coverage of major events like the Giro d'Italia, Tour de France Femmes, and Paris-Roubaix itself, offers a unique perspective on this evolving landscape.
So, what's your take? Is this calendar change a step forward for equality in cycling, or does it risk overshadowing the women's race? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
