Between Adrien Petit and Paris-Roubaix, it’s a real love story. If the Northerner does not often shine on the circuit, as soon as the queen of the classics arrives, he always manages to transcend himself. Tenth in 2016, ninth in 2017, he finished sixth in this 2022 edition.
Three top 10s in ten years in the hell of the North, it’s simple, no French rider has done better during the decade. So inevitably, the Northerner was happy at the arrival of his best ranking but also of his status as the best Frenchman. ” I am really happy. It’s confirmation that this race suits me really well”, rejoices the 31-year-old runner.
Morale and body hit before the race
However, the preparation for his favorite race has not been easy this year. Blame it on a nasty flu that left him flat. “It gave me a good morale boost. I was no longer advancing. I went to the start of the Tour of Flanders with zero feeling. I had to cancel my participation in the Amstel Gold Race because I was at rock bottom. But I did 200 km reconnaissance on Thursday to have the distance in my legs and the work paid off. I am satisfied”, continues the runner.
After two complicated years at Direct Energie, Petit regained his confidence by signing this year at Wanty-Gobert. “I was too much in my comfort zone and it kicked my ass,” admits Petit, who found great shape at the best of times.