Filippo Ganna describes Paris-Roubaix as a unique challenge beyond traditional cycling

Paris Roubaix cobbles

Filippo Ganna has set ambitious targets for 2025, aiming to excel in Paris-Roubaix, Milano-Sanremo, and the Tour de France. Currently training in the Canary Islands alongside director Leonardo Basso, Ganna is already envisioning his rides over the capi of Sanremo and the cobbles of the infamous Hell of the North, with July’s Tour de France also firmly on his radar.

The 28-year-old Italian, known for his versatility and multiple World time trial titles, recognises the challenges ahead. Despite his impressive track record, Ganna has yet to claim victory in any of these major races. Speaking to Bici.Pro, he shared his thoughts on the unique demands of Paris-Roubaix: “Roubaix is a different sport; it’s not cycling. It’s a mix of self-inflicted pain and enduring suffering, but it’s a race cherished by many athletes, both past and present.”

Ganna’s experience in Paris-Roubaix includes four participations, with his best finish being sixth in 2023. He skipped the event in 2024 to focus on the Olympics. Reflecting on the race’s unpredictable nature, he noted, “Itโ€™s a savage race, and every detail matters. But then thereโ€™s someone like Sonny [Colbrelli] who won the first time he showed up.”

Filippo Ganna

Equipment and race tactics

For the upcoming races, Ganna plans to make slight adjustments to his bike setup, particularly for the rough terrain of Roubaix. This includes switching to broader tyres, adding extra handlebar tape, and using gel to reduce the vibrations from the cobbles. His approach combines cool, calculated decisions with moments of instinct and heart.

Looking towards the summer, Ganna eyes the Tour de France with the first time trial on stage 5 in Normandy as a promising opportunity. Although the second time trial in the Pyrenees involves an uphill route, which doesn’t suit him, he remains open to potential successes in other stages. “The only thing that San Remo, Roubaix, and the Tour have in common for me is that I have never won them. Not a single stage, nothing at all. So in that sense, I am a bit behind and I hope that 2025 will be the year in which I can finally tick off these three races,” Ganna expressed to Bici.Pro.

Ganna’s 2025 season kicks off at the ร‰toile de Bessรฉges in France on 5th February, a race where he has previously secured three stage wins. While success there would be welcome, his primary goals are the prestigious races later in the year. With these major events clearly in sight, Ganna is determined to make 2025 a year to remember.