2018 Paris-Roubaix Hero: Silvan Dillier Talks Cobbles!

Silvan Dillier, the Swiss rider who famously partnered Peter Sagan during the decisive phase of the 2018 Paris-Roubaix, recently spoke to PezCyclingNews about his experience on the cobbles. While Sagan ultimately claimed the victory, Dillier, then riding for AG2R La Mondiale, was the only competitor able to match the world champion's pace through the Hell of the North, reaching the Roubaix velodrome together after being part of the day's early break.

This interview revisits a pivotal moment for Dillier, who, despite not winning, earned immense respect for his tenacious performance. His ability to hang with a rider of Sagan's calibre in one of cycling's most brutal races elevated his profile significantly, marking him as a Classics contender and a rider of exceptional grit. It highlights the often-unsung heroes of the Monuments, whose efforts frequently shape the race even if they don't cross the line first.

Dillier's account serves as a timely reminder that sometimes, the true hero isn't the one who wins, but the one who simply refuses to be beaten.