'Leave those cobblestones where they belong. This race is ruthless enough as it is' - Paris-Roubaix organisers horrified by thoughtless thieves pinching parts of the course

Paris-Roubaix organisers have expressed deep concern over the theft of cobblestones from the race’s iconic course, warning that such acts are making an already brutal event even more dangerous. In the days leading up to the Hell of the North, sections of the route, particularly through the Forest of Wallers and the Carrefour de l'Arbre, have been targeted by souvenir hunters removing cobblestones. Thierry Gouvenou, the race’s course designer, highlighted how these missing stones leave hazardous gaps that could cause serious crashes at high speeds, threatening the safety of riders in both the men’s and women’s races. The upkeep of the cobbled sectors is a costly and ongoing effort, managed by a dedicated group called Amis de Paris-Roubaix, who spend between €10,000 and €15,000 annually maintaining the surface. This maintenance includes regular inspections and repairs, with an unusual but effective help from goats to keep the terrain in good condition. Despite these efforts, Gouvenou revealed that thefts in the immediate run-up to the race have become increasingly frequent, forcing organisers to conduct repeated checks and emergency fixes to ensure the course remains safe and competitive. Gouvenou emphasised the broader impact of these thefts beyond rider safety, noting that damaged cobbles can influence the race’s outcome by introducing unpredictable hazards. He specifically mentioned the potential consequences for top contenders like Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel, whose battles could be tragically cut short by avoidable accidents caused by missing stones. The plea to fans and spectators was clear: leave the cobblestones in place to preserve the integrity and challenge of one of cycling’s most storied races. The situation underscores the delicate balance between preserving the heritage of Paris-Roubaix and ensuring the safety of its participants. Organisers must now contend with the dual challenges of maintaining the course’s historic character while mitigating risks introduced by thoughtless souvenir seekers. As the race approaches, the hope remains that respect for the course will prevail, allowing the event to unfold as a true test of skill and endurance without unnecessary hazards.