Duclos-Lassalle by an Inch

The 91st Paris–Roubaix was held on April 11, 1993. Defending P-R champion Gilbert Duclos-Lassalle returned with a renewed appetite for victory. At the age of 38 Duclos-Lassalle wanted more.

Twenty powerful riders formed a breakaway group through the “5 Star” Wallers-Arenberg (cobbled sector #14 of 23) with 103 km to go. After several other failed breakaway attempts, Franco Ballerini managed to break away from the lead group. The attack was quickly answered by an attentive Gilbert Duclos-Lassalle.

Once together the duo rode away through the remaining cobbled sections with Ballerini doing most of the work. The pair entered the velodrome with more than a 2 minute lead. Ballerini led Duclos-Lassalle into the velodrome and across the finish line as the bell for the final lap sounded.

Around the final corner the Frenchamn led towords the line, but coming off the banking Ballerini was moving faster and came around Duclos-Lassalle.

At the line Ballerini though he had the victory and raised his arms in salute.

BUT, a look at the photo finish showed Duclos-Lassale had crossed the line a millimeter ahead. The elder Gilbert Duclos-Lassale had won Paris-Roubaix for the second year in a row!!!

Duclos-Lassalle by an INCH!!!

SPECIAL NOTE: At the age of 38 years 8 months Gilbert Duclos-Lassale is the oldest winner of Paris-Roubaix.

P-R 1992

P-R 1994

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