WATCH: Cyclists Breaks Down in Tears After Enduring Mud-Soaked Race at Paris Roubaix 2021

Contrary to what a relaxing weekend looks like, cyclists competed in the famous ‘Sunday in Hell’ or otherwise known as ‘Hell of the North’ race. The Paris–Roubaix is one of the oldest cycling races, started in 1896, and is best known for not being a cakewalk.

The Paris Roubaix race starts from northern France and finishes in Roubaix, the border of Belgium. In the highly intense contest, cyclists get covered in mud as they make their way through cobbled roads and rutted tracks, in the former coal-mining region. Interestingly, the race is also known as the Queen of the Classics or la Pascal.

Sonny Colbrelli erupts with tears of joy

The Paris Roubaix is no normal race, given the dangerous route cyclists ride through. Notably, the race also contributes to the UCI World rankings, making it one of the most prestigious competitions.

After going through immense pain and challenges, Bahrain’s Sonny Colbrelli clinched the race. Remarkably, Sonny became the first Italian to win the race, as he reached the ending after 257.7km.

As he reached the finishing line, tears of joy rolled down his face. Drenched in mud and ecstasy, he had a major breakdown and collapsed on the grass, making it clear how much this win meant to him.

Making the race even more grueling for cyclists, and thrilling for the fans, all hell broke loose and rain came pouring down. Apparently, this was the first rain the race saw in the last 19 years, adding to the anguish of the cyclists.

Also read: Italian Cyclist Filippo Ganna ‘Dreamt’ of Winning Before Success at UCI Road World Championship 2021

Others who won at the Paris Roubaix 2021

While Sonny Colbrelli clinched first place in the men’s race, Belgian cyclist Florian Vermeersch and Dutchman Mathieu van der Poel finished behind him.

However, the race had another historic moment this year. For the first time in its history, the race had women cyclists as well. Britain’s Lizzie Deignan became the first-ever female winner of the Paris Roubaix, as she dominantly finished the 115.6km course. Netherland’s Marianne Vos finished in the second position, while Italy’s Elisa Longo Borghini finished in third place.

Also read: How Is a Racing Bicycle Different From a Normal One?