Van Petegem happy with new course

Peter Van Petegem is happy with the excitement that the new Paris-Roubaix parcours promises: "The new sections are worthy replacements for the Forêt de Wallers," he told Het Nieuwsblad. "The parcours goes continually up and down, there's a lot of narrow roads and some sections of cobbles aren't in the best state. It doesn't look super heavy but it can become tough. Although I don't see us going full speed as toward Wallers.

"You can't rely too much on the stars which the organisers have given the different sections. They are an indication, nothing more. The way the parcours is now there's only one golden rule: ride nicely in the middle of the road. In those puddles there's nothing to be found, except for flat tires."

Van Petegem is also not too comfortable on his saddle at the moment. "I've got some discomfort on my behind," he said. "I've had it (a cyst) for a few weeks now and it will definitely require some minor surgery. But for Sunday it won't be a problem. I'll just have to have to endure it."