Exceptional treatment for an exceptional race. This year, the Queen of Classics will be, for the first time, broadcast from start to finish. Some 20 networks will broadcast this unprecedented format. From the start at Compiègne just to the final metres in the Roubaix velodrome, television viewers from 145 countries will now be able to follow in detail all the preparation phases of the battle that will be decided in the Trouée d’Arenberg, the Mons-en-Pévèle and the Carrefour de l’Arbre sectors. Daniel Bilalian, the Director of the FranceTélévisions sports department which will broadcast Paris-Roubaix on France 3 then on France 2 on 10 April, explains why this daring choice was made…

"Television viewers always tune in for Paris-Roubaix. We decided to do this because this race, like the Tour de France, is more than just a sporting event. Paris-Roubaix is the thing legends are made of. We know that the critical moments of the race have always been covered in the past. But there was the possibility to use our production means to offer more and to monetize it in an intelligent manner.

"This reasoning wasn’t credible ten years ago, but the fragmentation of the audience, most notably on the many digital channels, has incited us to air the first two hours of the race, while knowing that fewer people will watch than the finale. This also corresponds to the logical use of our different channels. After studying the viewer ratings, it is worth it.

"As it concerns the production, we will implement a motorbike relay system, so the bikers themselves don’t have to ride so long. As for our commentators, we haven’t changed anything for the time being. But if this works out, we think we will use it on the Tour de France with an eventual start to finish live coverage on all the stages. In this case, we will also need two separate commentary teams."