Cycling has given the world many worthy athletes who have left their mark on history. Cycling professionals have been a true example of resilience and the will to win. Among the rich hall of fame stand out three legendary personalities who inspire many young cyclists to this day.
Eddy Merckx, born on June 17, 1945, in Meensel-Kiezegem, Belgium, is widely regarded as the greatest cyclist of all time. His career spanned from 1965 to 1978, during which he amassed an unprecedented number of victories and accolades. Merckx earned the nickname “The Cannibal” for his insatiable hunger for wins.
Merckx’s dominance in cycling is unparalleled. He won the Tour de France five times (1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1974), the Giro d’Italia five times (1968, 1970, 1972, 1973, 1974), and the Vuelta a España once (1973). Also, he secured 19 Monument classics, including seven Milan-San Remo victories. His career total of 525 professional wins remains a record.
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Lance Armstrong, born on September 18, 1971, in Plano, Texas, USA, is a controversial figure in cycling. Armstrong’s career began in the early 1990s, and he quickly made a name for himself with his powerful riding style. His career was marked by both extraordinary achievements and a significant doping scandal.
Armstrong is best known for winning the Tour de France seven consecutive times from 1999 to 2005. These victories were later stripped due to doping violations. Despite this, Armstrong’s comeback from cancer and his dominance in the sport during his peak years are notable. He also won the World Championship in 1993 and numerous other titles.
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Fausto Coppi, born on September 15, 1919, in Castellania, Italy, was one of the most iconic cyclists of the 20th century. Known as “Il Campionissimo” (The Champion of Champions), Coppi’s career was marked by his exceptional versatility and numerous victories across different terrains.
Coppi’s achievements include winning the Giro d’Italia five times (1940, 1947, 1949, 1952, 1953) and the Tour de France twice (1949, 1952). He was renowned for his time-trialling ability, climbing prowess, and dominance in one-day classics. His rivalry with Gino Bartali is one of the most storied in cycling history.
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These three cyclists, Eddy Merckx, Lance Armstrong and Fausto Coppi, left an indelible mark on the world of cycling. Their careers are filled with extraordinary achievements, memorable races and moments that defined the sport. If you’re just getting started with cycling, be sure to check out the key races of these legendary cyclists!