When the UCI published a revised 2020 Women’s WorldTour calendar the cycling world was surprised to see the addition of a first-ever Paris-Roubaix. It was an historical moment for women's cycling to be included in one of the world's most iconic Spring Classics, and will be a day written into the history books come race-day on October 25.
The revised calendar marked a replacement for plan after the spring and summer races were were halted due to the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, and would see 12 events from August 2-November 8.
UCI President David Lappartient called the addition of Paris-Roubaix to the Women's WorldTour a step toward equality with in the sport. "I believe that for women it is important to have the same opportunity for men."
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ASO announced the route details in September with the women's race set to begin in Denain, south of Roubaix. The peloton will race 116 kilometres before finishing on the famous Roubaix Velodrome. There are 17 sectors of cobbled roads with the pavé beginning after just 20km of racing.
Two sectors rated at the maximum difficulty level will be included in the race – Mons-en-Pévèle and the Carrefour de l'Arbre – while cobbles will take up 29.5km of the race route, meaning a quarter of the action will take place on the famous stones of northern France.
