'The cobbles, by the way, are excellent in London' - how crowds at Herne Hill cheered home Wout van Aert to victory at Paris-Roubaix

Wout van Aert’s thrilling victory at Paris-Roubaix was celebrated far from the traditional cobbled roads of Northern France, with a passionate crowd gathered at Herne Hill Velodrome in South London. As Van Aert edged ahead of Tadej Pogačar in the final laps inside the Roubaix velodrome, the atmosphere in the club room erupted with excitement. The velodrome, steeped in cycling history and home to VC Londres—the first club of British rider Fred Wright—offered a unique communal viewing experience, blending the drama of the race with the camaraderie of local cycling enthusiasts. The event at Herne Hill was preceded by the Cobblemonster ride, a challenging yet accessible group ride that explored some of London’s best cobbled streets. Riders praised the city’s cobbles for being more manageable than the notoriously brutal pavé of Belgium, which demand high speeds to navigate effectively. The ride’s route, which included areas like Farringdon, Docklands, and Wapping High Street, culminated in a celebratory lap of the velodrome, mirroring the iconic finish of Paris-Roubaix itself. This blend of physical challenge and shared experience helped build a palpable buzz among participants and spectators alike. Emily Stainer, a newcomer to professional racing, highlighted the unpredictable and open nature of Paris-Roubaix compared to other classics such as the Tour of Flanders, which can feel decided well before the finish. The race’s history of underdog victories and relentless mechanical drama, including punctures and crashes, keeps fans on edge until the very end. This unpredictability was reflected in the room’s collective focus, as everyone watched the unfolding drama together, underscoring the importance of communal spaces where cycling fans can gather to celebrate the sport. The gathering at Herne Hill also sparked reflections on inclusivity within the cycling community. Despite the event’s relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, there was a shared desire for greater female participation, both in riding events like the Cobblemonster and in race viewings. Organisers and attendees recognised the need to broaden the appeal of cycling culture to ensure it remains accessible and engaging for all demographics. Ultimately, the Herne Hill experience reinforced the enduring appeal of Paris-Roubaix as a race that transcends geography, bringing fans together in celebration of grit, skill, and shared passion. Van Aert’s victory provided a fitting climax to a day that combined physical endeavour, historical reverence, and communal joy, illustrating how the spirit of the cobbles can be captured even far from their northern heartlands.