Despite restrictions on sporting events in France due to the spread of the Covid 19 coronavirus, Paris-Nice continues to move south.

On Monday, the French government enacted new measures banning public gatherings of more than 1,000 people. Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday was held behind closed doors, and the French rugby team's Six Nations match against Ireland this weekend was postponed.

The Paris-Nice event has not yet been affected, but organizer ASO has banned public access to the start and finish areas of the stage to comply with the decree. Athletes have already been advised to avoid interacting with supporters during the race, and podium and autograph ceremonies have been scaled back.

According to "Het Laatste Nieuws" (opens in new tab), "Looking across the peloton, we assume that 90% will not reach Nice. Perhaps this new measure is the next step in that direction."

The cycling season has already been disrupted by Covid-19: the final two stages of the UAE Tour have been canceled and the entire caravan has been quarantined due to suspected infection on the race. All races held in Italy this month were postponed, including Milan-San Remo, Tirreno-Adriatico, and Strade Bianche.

Stuben, winner of the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad on Belgium's opening weekend, is one of the leading contenders for the cobbled classic in his home country, but has expressed concern that the race may not take place at all. There are currently 239 confirmed Covid-19 cases in Belgium, but so far no restrictions have been placed on rallies as in France and Italy.

"We are told that we still have eight days before we head to Belgium, by which time it could completely blow up in Belgium," Steuben said. 'Organizers can take precautions, but at the same time the virus is spreading exponentially. I fear this will affect the Flemish Classic as well."

Stuyven, a native of Leuven, has recently moved to Monaco to take precautions against Covid-19.

"I don't go out unless I have to. I prepare my meals at home." Last week, someone was taken out of our complex for fear of coronavirus infection. It turned out to be a false alarm. I think, 'If it's coming, it's coming. I don't panic.'

Paris-Nice continues on Tuesday with the 212-km third stage from Chalet-sur-Loing to La Chatre. Max Schachmann (Bora-Hansgrohe) took the yellow jersey, with Steuben's teammate Vincenzo Nibali in ninth place, 28 seconds behind.