28th Paris-Roubaix 1927 (France)

Top 20 All Time Major Classics #19

A Controversial Victory for George Ronsse

The 1927 edition of Paris-Roubaix saw massive crowds come to view the race on a beautiful day in northern France .

After a slow early pace young Belgian George Ronsse set a relentless tempo through the feed zone in Arras. Refusing food and water Ronsse attacked. Slowly gaining time as he rode brilliantly through the cobbled sections. An elite group of 16 chased hard and caught Ronsse entering Roubaix.

Onto the Avenue des Villars the finishing sprint opened up. Ronsse and Frenchman Joseph Curtel dropped sprinter Charles Pelissier. The two battled to the line with Curtel apparently taking the victory. Ecstatic French fan began to celebrate.

When official results were announced, Ronsse first, Curtel second, a near riot erupted. Cries of “Lynch the race officials” came from the angry crowd. But the results remained official.

SPECIAL NOTE: Rumor had Ronsse's powerful Automoto team plotting behind the scene to gain the victory?

The huge victory marked the start of a brilliant career for this strong Belgian.

P-R 1926

P-R 1928

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