EUROTRASH: Seixas Shines in Spain | Paris-Roubaix Heats Up

Paul Seixas has further established himself as a rising star in professional cycling with a commanding performance at the Itzulia Basque Country race in Spain. Demonstrating exceptional climbing and descending skills, Seixas outpaced notable contenders such as del Toro, Ayuso, and Roglic, leading the race from the opening time trial through much of the event. Although he fell short of winning every stage due to a successful breakaway on stage three, his dominance in this early-season race adds weight to the argument that he could be the next major Grand Tour contender, challenging the current hierarchy led by Tadej Pogačar. Reactions to recent races have been mixed but largely positive, particularly regarding the Tour of Flanders. A reader poll revealed that while some viewers found the race less thrilling, the majority appreciated witnessing the ongoing duel among cycling’s elite. Comments highlighted the extraordinary talents of riders like Pogačar and Mathieu van der Poel, with many recognising the rarity of such high-calibre competition even if the races themselves sometimes lack suspense. The consensus suggests that fans value the opportunity to watch cycling’s current generation of greats, despite occasional predictability in outcomes. Looking ahead to Paris-Roubaix 2026, anticipation is building for the 123rd edition of the iconic “Hell of the North.” The race will cover 258.3 kilometres from Compiègne to Roubaix, featuring 30 cobbled sectors that test riders’ raw power and bike handling rather than climbing ability. Notably, race director Thierry Gouvenou has introduced a new sequence of four consecutive cobbled sectors early in the race, including a rarely used uphill cobble sector, which is expected to intensify early selection in the peloton. The legendary five-star sectors—Trouée d’Arenberg, Mons-en-Pévèle, and Carrefour de l’Arbre—remain key battlegrounds in the race’s brutal finale. Organisers have also taken innovative steps to preserve the historic cobbles, with a herd of goats employed to maintain the Trouée d’Arenberg sector’s ancient paving. This blend of tradition and modern care underscores the race’s unique character and the challenges it presents. As Paris-Roubaix approaches, riders and fans alike are preparing for a spectacle that combines history, grit, and fierce competition, promising an enthralling contest on one of cycling’s most demanding courses.