The French Ministry of Health has banned gatherings of more than 1,000 people, with the ban set to remain in force until 15th April, a period that overlaps with Paris-Roubaix.
The news could see the race go ahead without fans at the famous Roubaix Velodrome, or it is possible that the event will be cancelled completely.
Health Minister Olivier Véran suggested the current ban might contain specific exclusions for protests, exams and public transportation. These will be decided on a case-by-case basis by prefects and ministries.
Major spring cycling races Strade Bianchi and Milan-San Remo have already been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, but none of the races in the north of Europe have been called off as of yet.
Paris-Nice is currently underway but without fans at either the start of finish. ASO announced the measure on Monday, asking fans to accept the rules “even though they are in contrast to the tradition where cycling brings riders and fans together”.
