Goats, cobble inspections and the Easter Bunny: this week in cycling's social media

This week’s cycling news has been marked by a mixture of light-hearted moments and serious concerns ahead of the Paris-Roubaix race. While Tadej Pogačar and Demi Vollering’s recent victories at the Tour of Flanders grabbed headlines, attention has also focused on safety issues, with 54 riders under investigation for crossing train tracks against a red signal during the Flemish race. Additionally, there have been reports of cobbles being stolen from the iconic Paris-Roubaix course, highlighting risks that could endanger competitors in one of cycling’s toughest Classics. In preparation for Sunday’s Paris-Roubaix, the Uno-X Mobility team, led by Jonas Abrahamsen, has been meticulously inspecting the cobbled sections to ensure they are in optimal condition. Interestingly, a herd of around 40 goats plays a unique role in maintaining the course by eco-grazing the weeds, reducing the need for chemical treatments. This environmentally friendly approach helps preserve the cobbles ahead of what promises to be a fiercely contested race, with Pogačar aiming to match Mathieu van der Poel’s record of three wins and Vollering looking to extend her strong form in the women’s event. The social media sphere has also been abuzz with lighter stories, including Italian cyclist Elisa Scarlatta spreading Easter cheer with a creative crochet bike and egg bag, and SD Worx-Protime’s Easter bunny mascot making appearances at the Tour of Flanders. Rising star Zoe Bäckstedt impressed with a fifth-place finish in the women’s race, showing her potential despite admitting to gaps in general knowledge. Meanwhile, the infamous Muur van Geraardsbergen climb featured in recent races, with some riders even attempting it while carrying dogs, underscoring the challenging and sometimes quirky nature of the sport. Safety concerns remain prominent after the train crossing incident at the Tour of Flanders, where the peloton was split, leaving some riders disadvantaged and potentially facing fines from Belgian authorities. This incident has sparked debate about race management and rider responsibility. As Paris-Roubaix approaches, teams are taking no chances, with thorough course checks and preparations underway to avoid similar issues. The race, scheduled for 12 April, is set to be a highlight of the spring Classics calendar, combining tradition, fierce competition, and a touch of the unexpected.