As if Paris-Roubaix wasn't hard enough, race organisers have added an uphill cobbled sector to the 2016 race on April 10.
The sector at Hameau du Buat returns after a three-year absence and will challenge riders 127km into the 257.5km race in northern France.
Organisers ASO also revealed that several sections, including the daunting Mons-en-Pévèle, have been renovated ahead of the 2016 edition, thanks to an initiative in the area.
Sean Kelly talks us through riding on cobbles
It also said that work around the town of Hem, which comes near the conclusion of the race, to cobble a pedestrian and cycle path could provide the possibility of extending the race in future years.
This change could see riders tackling a three kilometre cobbled sector as the last major obstacle on the already epic race.
Reigning champion John Degenkolb is likely to miss the 2016 race after suffering a broken arm and finger injury in a head-on collision with a car on a training ride in Spain.
In his possible absence, Tom Boonen will look to become the most decorated rider in the race's history, with the chance to win his fifth title on the Roubaix velodrome.
Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription
Join now for unlimited access
Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
-
-
Car brand Ford sponsors RideLondon as part of initiative to reduce use of cars
Ford has teamed up with RideLondon as part of its 'park the car' initiative, targetting reduction of short journeys
-
Best heart rate monitors for cycling 2022: best models and what to look for
Looking for the best heart rate monitors for cycling? We round up some of the best options out there on the market and explain what to look for
-
Winner Dylan van Baarle shares impressive Strava data from fastest-ever Paris-Roubaix
The Dutchman covered the 257.2km route in 5-37-00, winning with a powerful solo attack 19km from the finish line
-
Is the Paris-Roubaix tubular dead? Why tubeless tyres are winning on the cobbles
The unique challenges of the Hell of the North place much emphasis on wheel selection. We talk to two teams and two wheel manufacturers about solving the problem that is Roubaix
-
Filippo Ganna to be given opportunities at Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix this year
Italian rouleur says he wants to prove he is more than "just" a time triallist and track specialist
-
Vincenzo Nibali to tackle Paris-Roubaix for first time in 2022
Italian is down to race all five monuments in 2022 for Astana-Qazaqstan
-
Watch: Incredible on-bike highlights from eventful Paris-Roubaix
An alternative perspective on the astonishing race
-
Patrick Lefevere’s son in court accused of flying helicopter over Paris-Roubaix without permission
The son of Deceuninck – Quick-Step boss Patrick Lefevere has appeared in court after being accused of flying a helicopter over Paris-Roubaix without permission.
-
John Degenkolb launches campaign to save junior Paris-Roubaix and smashes target in one day
John Degenkolb has launched a fundraising campaign to save the junior Paris-Roubaix race, raising more €10,000 in one day.
-
Paris-Roubaix cobbled sector to receive mortar makeover to aid rider safety
Removal of vegetation will not reduce the sector's drama
