The first edition of Paris-Roubaix for women was on 3 October 2021, which means it's only been six months since the riders faced 'Hell of the North' for the first time. Rain and wind dominated this edition: punctures and crashes were inevitable.

This year it seems to be dusting rather than mud wrestling. According to the weather forecast, it will be a sunny spring day with about fifteen degrees on the thermometer when the starting signal sounds at 12.25 pm. The weather is not the only thing that will be different in this edition: the route has also been adjusted. Over eight kilometres - one local lap extra - have been added to the course, increasing the total to 124.7 kilometres.

Vos took home the silver cobblestone trophy last year after finishing over a minute after Lizzie Deignan and half a minute before Elisa Longo Borghini. Paris-Roubaix is, therefore, a race that suits Vos. Unfortunately, Covid has prevented her participation in this edition. Vos’ tested positive this morning. A second test provided the same result. Although Vos has no complaints, starting in Paris-Roubaix today is ​​not an option.

“The disappointment is enormous”, Vos said. “I had been looking forward to this race. When I tested positive this morning, the world came crashing down. But I support the team’s policy. I should not take any risks with my health. I’m going home, I’m taking a rest and I hope I keep feeling well.”

The start is in Denain, and the course quickly winds northwards. After about forty kilometres, the first cobbled section appears. At 3.7 kilometres, it is also the longest. Cobbled section two follows three kilometres later and the course continues like this for fifteen more. Section seven deserves extra attention. It is 3 kilometres long and not in the best condition. The thirteenth stretch (Carrefour de l'Arbre) is also worth mentioning. This part of the course is littered with giant cobblestones, it slopes somewhat and the road has treacherous corners. One consolation: the last three cobbled sections are relatively easy compared to their predecessors.

The finish has been in the Vélodrome André Pétrieux since 1934, the arrival place of Paris-Roubaix. The course's final metres consist of a lap on the cycling arena's concrete track.

Paris-Roubaix Femmes starts at 12.25 pm and the finish is expected around 3.50 pm.