38th Paris-Roubaix 1937 (France)

Italians Celebrate

Young Italian Jules Rossi lined up for the 1937 Paris-Roubaix against the heavily favored Belgian superstars. The early pace was aggressive but the peloton came back together in Arras with nearly 50 km to go.

A decisive attack was launched on the cobbled section at Henin-Lietard as a group of 8 riders broke away. The surprise of the elite group was Jules Rossi. The Italian was isolated in the breakaway by Belgians and realized he only had one chance to win… attack.

Rossi's effort only shed 2 riders and the group flew into Roubaix and the finish. Rossi led out the long sprint on the finishing straight with Belgians poised and ready. The inspired Italian was too strong and crossed the finish line for the upset victory.

Special Note #1: the finish line returned to the traditional Avenue des Villas, which was re-named Avenue Gustave Delory.

Special Note #2: Jules Rossi's victory was so surprising the band did not have a copy of the Italian National Anthem. Rossi stood on the podium as something the band thought resembled the Anthem was played.

P-R 1936

P-R 1938

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