Cyclists

Lance Armstrong is a former professional road racing cyclist who notably won the Tour de France a record seven times in a row from 1999 to 2005. He initially competed as a triathlete before turning to professional cycling with the Motorola team in 1992. Armstrong successfully battled testicular cancer and established the Livestrong Foundation to aid cancer survivors. However, his cycling achievements were tarnished when he was stripped of his titles following doping allegations, resulting in a lifetime ban from official events. In 2013, Armstrong acknowledged doping and reached a settlement in a civil lawsuit in 2018.

Chris Froome, a British professional road racing cyclist, is renowned for his accomplishments in Grand Tours. With seven Grand Tour victories under his belt, he has secured four Tour de France titles, one Giro d'Italia win, and two Vuelta a España triumphs. In addition to his success in stage races, Froome has been honored with the Vélo d'Or award three times. Throughout his career, he has faced doping allegations and overcame a significant training crash that impacted his performance. Despite the challenges he encountered post-injury, Froome maintained his prominence in the peloton.

Mark Cavendish is a highly accomplished professional road racing cyclist known for his sprinting abilities. He has had a successful career in both track and road cycling, winning numerous championships and stage races. Cavendish holds the record for the most stage wins at the Tour de France and has achieved significant victories in various Grand Tours. He has also been honored with prestigious titles such as Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) and Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) for his contributions to cycling and charity work.

Eddy Merckx is a renowned Belgian former professional cyclist who is considered the most successful rider in competitive cycling history. His achievements include victories in eleven Grand Tours, all five Monuments, the hour record, three World Championships, and many major one-day races. Known for his fierce competitive spirit, Merckx was nicknamed "The Cannibal." Even after retiring, he remained active in cycling by founding Eddy Merckx Cycles and coaching the Belgian national cycling team.

Greg LeMond is a renowned American former road racing cyclist celebrated for his remarkable accomplishments in professional cycling. He clinched victory at the Tour de France three times and secured the Road Race World Championship title twice, making him the sole American male to achieve such a feat. LeMond holds the distinction of being the first non-European professional cyclist to win the Tour de France. He played a pivotal role in advancing the sport by promoting technological innovations like aerodynamic handlebars and carbon fiber bicycle frames. Moreover, he has actively campaigned against the use of performance-enhancing drugs in cycling and is dedicated to supporting male victims of child sex abuse through charitable initiatives.

Alberto Contador Velasco, a Spanish retired professional cyclist, gained fame for his triumphs in numerous Grand Tours, such as the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia, and Vuelta a España. Regarded as a successor to Lance Armstrong, he secured victories with various teams, highlighting his expertise as a climber and time-trialist. Despite encountering obstacles like a doping scandal, Contador persevered in the sport, showcasing his tactical prowess in shaping races to his advantage and achieving remarkable successes over his career.

Nairo Quintana, a Colombian racing cyclist renowned for his exceptional climbing skills, competes for UCI WorldTeam Movistar Team. Quintana has had an illustrious career, securing victories in prestigious races such as the 2014 Giro d'Italia and 2016 Vuelta a España. Additionally, he has claimed second place in the Tour de France on two occasions. Widely considered one of the most accomplished stage-racing riders in recent times, Quintana's numerous wins in major stage races and consistent top 10 finishes have cemented his status as a key figure in Colombian cycling history.

Former track cyclist and racing driver Sir Chris Hoy, hailing from Scotland, is renowned for his remarkable career in Olympic and World Championships, representing Great Britain and Scotland. With a total of seven Olympic medals to his name, including six gold and one silver, Hoy is a multiple world and Olympic champion. Widely regarded as one of the most successful track cyclists in history, he has secured numerous gold medals across various cycling disciplines, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the sport.

Marco Pantani, the renowned Italian road racing cyclist, was celebrated for his exceptional climbing abilities in the world of cycling. He was widely recognized as one of the greatest climbing specialists in the sport's history, setting records for the fastest ascents up iconic Tour de France locations such as Mont Ventoux and Alpe d'Huez. Pantani achieved the rare feat of winning both the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia, making him the second to last rider to accomplish this double. Despite facing doping allegations, he never tested positive, but his expulsion from the 1999 Giro d'Italia due to irregular blood values led to a severe depression from which he tragically never recovered.

Primož Roglič is a Slovenian professional racing cyclist renowned for his achievements in road racing. His transition from ski jumping to cycling following an accident has been remarkable. Roglič has secured impressive victories, triumphing in stages at prestigious races like the Tour de France and Vuelta a España. He has also earned notable placements in events such as the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France, consistently ranking as a top cyclist in the UCI Men's road racing world rankings, demonstrating his exceptional talent and skill in the sport.

Dame Laura Kenny, a renowned former British professional cyclist, excelled in endurance events like team pursuit, omnium, scratch race, elimination race, and madison. She has garnered six Olympic medals spanning various disciplines and has also clinched numerous World Championship, European Championship, and Commonwealth Games titles. Dame Laura Kenny stands as one of the most accomplished and decorated female cyclists in history.

Jan Ullrich, a former professional road bicycle racer from Germany, is renowned for his remarkable accomplishments in the sport. He achieved gold and silver medals at the 2000 Summer Olympics and the 1999 Vuelta a España. Ullrich's victories at the HEW Cyclassics and the 1997 Tour de France played a significant role in popularizing cycling in Germany. Unfortunately, his career was tainted by doping scandals, resulting in his disqualification from the 2006 Tour de France and subsequent bans due to doping violations.

Vincenzo Nibali is a celebrated Italian retired professional road cyclist known for his outstanding accomplishments in cycling's Grand Tours. He demonstrated exceptional versatility throughout his career, excelling in both multi-stage races and classic cycling events. Nibali's impressive success includes wins in prestigious races such as the Vuelta a España, Giro d'Italia, and Tour de France. Renowned as one of the top stage race riders of his era, he also achieved victories in competitions like Tirreno–Adriatico and Giro del Trentino, highlighting his well-rounded skills.

Alejandro Valverde Belmonte, a retired Spanish cyclist, enjoyed a successful career in road bicycle racing from 2002 to 2022. He now competes in gravel cycling for the Movistar Team Gravel Squad. Valverde secured 133 professional victories, including prestigious titles like the Vuelta a España, Critérium du Dauphiné, Tour of the Basque Country, Volta a Catalunya, Liège–Bastogne–Liège, La Flèche Wallonne, and Clásica de San Sebastián. Known for his prowess in climbing, sprinting, and time-trialing, Valverde was recognized as a versatile and accomplished cyclist.

Bernard Hinault, a French former professional road cyclist, is renowned for his aggressive riding style and dominance in Grand Tours, winning 147 victories, including five Tour de France titles. Considered one of the greatest cyclists of all time, Hinault turned professional in 1975 and enjoyed rapid success by winning multiple Grand Tours and classics. Notably, he had a fierce rivalry with teammate Greg LeMond and was respected for his leadership as a patron within the peloton. Hinault retired in 1986, remaining the most recent French cyclist to win the Tour de France.

Sean Kelly, an Irish former professional road bicycle racer, enjoyed great success in the 1980s, winning a total of 193 professional races during his career, which included nine Monument Classics. Notable achievements include seven consecutive wins in the Paris–Nice race, the first UCI Road World Cup victory in 1989, and a triumph in the 1988 Vuelta a España. Kelly also secured four green jerseys in the Tour de France and stood out for his victories in races such as the Giro di Lombardia, Milan–San Remo, and Paris–Roubaix.

Cadel Evans is an accomplished Australian former professional racing cyclist who specialized in mountain biking and road bicycle racing. Throughout his career, he made significant achievements such as winning the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, excelling in the men's cross-country mountain bike race at the Olympics, and triumphing in esteemed road cycling competitions like the Tour de France. Notably, Evans made history as the first Australian to claim victory in the Tour de France before retiring in 2015 following a successful cycling journey.

Fabian Cancellara, also known as "Spartacus," is a Swiss cycling executive and retired professional road racing cyclist. He was renowned for his exceptional skills in time trials and classic races, earning multiple World Championships and Olympic gold medals. Cancellara claimed significant wins at renowned competitions like the Tour de France, Paris-Roubaix, and the Tour of Flanders. Known for his leadership and teamwork, he competed for various professional teams, amassing a collection of victories and honors throughout his esteemed cycling career.

Philippa York is a Scottish journalist and former professional road racing cyclist. Competing as Robert Millar, she achieved significant success in cycling, including winning the "King of the Mountains" competition in the 1984 Tour de France and finishing fourth overall. York also secured notable finishes in other major races such as the Giro d'Italia and Vuelta a España. After retiring from cycling, she transitioned to journalism and briefly worked as a coach for British Cycling before returning to journalism under her new name.

Annemiek van Vleuten is a highly accomplished Dutch professional road racing cyclist who has garnered remarkable success throughout her career. She has won multiple UCI Road World Championships in both road race and time trial events and has achieved gold and silver medals in cycling events at the Olympic Games. Van Vleuten has been a dominant force in women's cycling Grand Tours, triumphing in prestigious races like the Giro Donne and La Vuelta Femenina. With numerous victories in stage races and one-day events, she is widely regarded as one of the greatest female cyclists in history. Van Vleuten retired in 2023 after an illustrious cycling career.

Gino Bartali, also known as Gino the Pious and Ginettaccio in Italy, was a champion road cyclist. He achieved significant success, winning the Giro d'Italia in 1936, 1937, and 1946, as well as the Tour de France in 1938 and 1948. His victory in the 1948 Tour de France set a record for the largest gap between wins in the race. Bartali was posthumously honored for aiding Jews during the war and recognized as a "Righteous Among the Nations" in 2013.

Stephen Roche, an Irish former professional road racing cyclist, reached his peak success in 1987 when he won the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia general classification, and World road race championship, achieving the Triple Crown. Although praised for his pedalling style, Roche faced challenges with knee injuries and saw a decline in his performance in Grand Tours after 1987. Throughout his career, he secured a total of 58 professional wins, but allegations of EPO use surfaced in his later years.

Laurent Fignon, a notable French professional road cyclist, was renowned for his impressive triumphs in prestigious cycling competitions like the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia. He claimed victory in the Tour de France in 1983 and 1984, held the FICP World No. 1 title in 1989, and also won the Giro d'Italia in the same year. Fignon's career was marked by his intense competition with Greg LeMond, notably in the 1989 Tour de France, where he narrowly lost in a memorable finish. Additionally, he excelled in classic races such as Milan–San Remo. Sadly, Fignon passed away from cancer in 2010.

Peter Sagan, a professional cyclist from Slovakia, has excelled in road bicycle racing after beginning his career in cyclo-cross and mountain bike events. Widely regarded as one of cycling's most talented athletes, Sagan has accumulated an impressive 121 victories. His notable achievements include three consecutive World Championships, a European Championship title, and numerous stage wins in prestigious races such as the Tour de Pologne, Tour of California, and Tour de Suisse. In an exciting development, Sagan is planning a comeback to mountain bike racing in 2024.

Jacques Anquetil, a French road racing cyclist, was the first to win the Tour de France five times, earning him the nickname "Monsieur Chrono" for his exceptional time trial skills. He won a total of eight Grand Tours during his career, setting a record at the time of his retirement. Anquetil's legacy as a cycling legend has only been surpassed by Eddy Merckx and Bernard Hinault.

Sir Bradley Marc Wiggins, a British former professional cyclist, found success in both road and track racing. He won world titles and Olympic gold medals in various disciplines, becoming the first Briton to achieve victory in the Tour de France and win Olympic Gold in the same year. Wiggins set records in team pursuit and secured multiple Olympic gold medals. Despite doping allegations, he did not face any bans during his career. Wiggins retired in 2016, leaving a significant legacy in the cycling world.

Philippe Gilbert, a retired Belgian professional road bicycle racer, is renowned for his triumphs in classic cycle races and Grand Tours. He secured significant wins, including the World Road Race Championships in 2012 and being among the select riders to conquer the three Ardennes classics in a single season. Gilbert's impressive list of victories includes Paris–Tours, Giro di Lombardia, Amstel Gold Race, La Flèche Wallonne, Liège–Bastogne–Liège, Clásica de San Sebastián, Tour of Flanders, and Paris–Roubaix. In 2022, he concluded his successful career.

Miguel Induráin Larraya, a retired Spanish road racing cyclist, is renowned for his exceptional accomplishments in professional cycling. He made history by winning five consecutive Tours de France from 1991 to 1995, a feat unmatched by any other cyclist. Additionally, Induráin claimed victory in the Giro d'Italia twice and held the prestigious yellow jersey in the Tour de France for an impressive total of 60 days. His moniker "Big Mig" highlights his physical stature and dominance in the sport, solidifying his status as one of the greatest cyclists of all time.

Rigoberto Urán, a Colombian professional road racing cyclist for UCI WorldTeam EF Education–EasyPost, has secured fifteen victories throughout his career, including stage wins at all three Grand Tours. Notably, he won a silver medal in the road race at the 2012 Olympic Games. In 2013, Urán made history as the first Colombian to reach the podium in the Giro d'Italia, finishing second overall and also securing a mountain-top stage win during the race. He has also achieved impressive results in races like the Tour de France.

Geraint Thomas, OBE, is a Welsh professional racing cyclist for UCI WorldTeam Ineos Grenadiers. He has achieved success in both track and road cycling, winning multiple World Championships and Olympic gold medals in track cycling, as well as the 2018 Tour de France. Thomas is known for excelling in various cycling disciplines, including one-day races, stage races, and grand tours, showcasing his all-round ability and adaptability. He has made history with notable victories in prestigious events like the Tour de France.

Greg Van Avermaet, a retired Belgian professional cyclist, was known for his versatility in modern cycling. He excelled in classic cycle races and stage races on hilly terrains, winning prestigious events such as the Olympic road race and one-day races like Paris–Roubaix and Gent–Wevelgem. His success extended to Grand Tours, where he achieved stage wins in the Tour de France and wore the Yellow Jersey. Van Avermaet capped his career by winning the 2017 UCI World Tour before retiring following his stint with the AG2R Citroën Team in the 2021 season.

Fausto Coppi was a dominant Italian cyclist in the post-World War II era, known as Il Campionissimo ("Champion of Champions"). He excelled in climbing, time trialing, and sprinting, winning the Giro d'Italia five times, the Tour de France twice, and the World Championship once. Coppi also achieved victories in races such as Giro di Lombardia, Milan–San Remo, Paris–Roubaix, and La Flèche Wallonne. His career highlights include setting the hour record in 1942. Coppi's versatility and numerous victories solidified his status as one of the greatest cyclists of his era.

Tom Boonen, a Belgian retired professional road bicycle racer and current racing driver, had a successful career from 2002 to 2017. He competed for teams like U.S. Postal Service and Quick-Step Floors, excelling as a single-day road specialist with a strong sprint. Boonen secured numerous victories in prestigious events such as the Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders. Additionally, he achieved success at races like the E3 Harelbeke, stages in the Tour de France, and titles in the Tour of Qatar.

Marianne Vos, a highly accomplished Dutch cyclist, excels in various disciplines at the highest level of competition. She has achieved remarkable success in road racing, cyclo-cross, and track racing, earning numerous World Championships and Olympic gold medals. Vos is renowned for her performances in prestigious races like the Giro Donne and La Flèche Wallonne, consistently ranking among the top cyclists in the UCI rankings. Additionally, as a prominent advocate for women's cycling, she has played a pivotal role in promoting gender equality in the sport.

Victoria Pendleton is a renowned British athlete who excelled in sprint, team sprint, and keirin disciplines in both track cycling and horse racing. Throughout her career, she achieved remarkable success as a former Olympic, World, European, and Commonwealth champion, earning two Olympic gold medals and one silver. Pendleton has garnered nine world titles, including six individual sprint titles. She represented Great Britain and England in various international cycling competitions, securing significant victories at the Beijing and London Olympics. In recognition of her contributions to cycling, Pendleton was awarded MBE and CBE titles and is a distinguished member of the European Cycling Union Hall of Fame.

Lizzie Deignan, a renowned professional cyclist from England, has an impressive list of achievements in both track and road racing. She is a world champion in road racing and has secured victories in prestigious events such as the World road race championship, Commonwealth Games road race championship, and the UCI Women's Road World Cup. Deignan's success also extends to races like Paris-Roubaix Femmes, Tour of Flanders, and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. In track cycling, she has earned multiple medals at the UCI Track Cycling World Championships.

Raymond Poulidor, also known as "Pou-Pou," was a renowned French professional cyclist who rode for Mercier throughout his career. He competed during the same era as cycling greats Jacques Anquetil and Eddy Merckx. While Poulidor consistently performed well, he never clinched a Tour de France victory, earning the nickname "The Eternal Second" for finishing as runner-up three times and in third place five times. Despite this, he secured a win in the 1964 Vuelta a España and achieved top 10 placements in fifteen out of eighteen Grand Tours he participated in, demonstrating his enduring skill and determination in the world of competitive cycling.

Alexander Vinokourov is a former professional road bicycle racer of Russian origin. He is known for his successes in prestigious cycling events such as the Tour de France, Vuelta a España, and the Olympics. Despite facing setbacks like a ban for blood doping, he made a comeback and continued to excel in the sport. After retiring from racing, Vinokourov transitioned into a managerial role with Astana, showcasing his dedication and passion for cycling in both competing and leading capacities.

Jakob Fuglsang is a Danish professional road racing cyclist currently competing for UCI ProTeam Israel–Premier Tech. He began his career as a successful mountain biker before transitioning to road cycling with Team Saxo Bank. Fuglsang has achieved impressive results in major races such as the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia, finishing 7th and 6th overall respectively. Notable career highlights include victories at prestigious events like Liège–Bastogne–Liège and Il Lombardia, as well as multiple stage race wins, showcasing his versatility and strength as a cyclist.

Alexander Kristoff is a well-known Norwegian professional road cyclist who rides for UCI ProTeam Uno-X Mobility. He has achieved notable success in races such as the 2014 Milan-San Remo and the 2015 Tour of Flanders. Kristoff's impressive career is characterized by numerous victories that demonstrate his exceptional skills and determination in competitive cycling. His talent and dedication have established him as a prominent figure in the professional cycling world.

Anna van der Breggen, a Dutch former professional road bicycle racer, is renowned for her versatility and success in one-day classics and stage races, particularly on hilly terrain. She rode for esteemed teams such as Team Flexpoint, Sengers Ladies Cycling Team, Rabo–Liv, and SD Worx during her career. Her achievements include an Olympic gold medal in 2016, multiple Giro d'Italia Femminile victories, and wins in prestigious races like La Flèche Wallonne, Liège–Bastogne–Liège, and the UCI Road World Championships. After retiring in 2021, van der Breggen now serves as a directeur sportif for Team SD Worx–Protime.

Erik Zabel, a German former professional road bicycle racer, is celebrated for his remarkable career with Team Telekom. With 152 professional wins and 211 wins overall, Zabel is recognized as a top German cyclist and sprinter. He excelled in points classifications at grands tours, notably clinching the Tour de France points classification six consecutive times. Zabel also achieved victories in the Vuelta a España and the Milan–San Remo multiple times, demonstrating his versatility and expertise in diverse cycling disciplines.

Beryl Burton, an English racing cyclist, excelled in women's cycling with over 90 domestic championships, seven world titles, and numerous national records. In 1967, she demonstrated her exceptional abilities by setting a world record for the 12-hour time-trial, surpassing men's records for two consecutive years. Burton's remarkable success in the sport established her as one of the greatest female cyclists of her era, leaving a lasting legacy in cycling.

Richard Virenque, a retired French professional road racing cyclist, is renowned for his climbing prowess and fan following. He holds the record for winning the King of the Mountains competition in the Tour de France seven times. However, his career was overshadowed by his connection to the 1998 Festina Affair, a doping scandal. Despite evidence pointing towards his involvement, Virenque consistently denied any wrongdoing, leading to his controversial status in the cycling community.

Joaquim Rodríguez Oliver, a Spanish cyclist, had a successful career in road bicycle racing from 2001 to 2016. Known for his achievements in various teams, he secured fourteen Grand Tour stage wins and five overall podium finishes in major races like the Giro d'Italia, Vuelta a España, and Tour de France. Rodríguez also excelled in classics such as La Flèche Wallonne and Giro di Lombardia. Following his retirement from road racing, he switched to mountain bike racing and founded his own team, Andbank–La Purito.

Bauke Mollema is a prominent Dutch professional cyclist competing for UCI WorldTeam Lidl–Trek. Known for his strong performances in Grand Tours, Mollema has secured top 10 finishes in all three major races. Notably, he has claimed stage victories in the Tour de France and Vuelta a España. In the Tour de France, Mollema achieved his best general classification result in 2013, finishing in 6th place. He has also won the Clásica de San Sebastián and secured podium finishes in other races, including a significant victory in Il Lombardia in 2019.

Francesco Moser, also known as "Lo sceriffo" (The sheriff), was a dominant professional road bicycle racer in the mid-1970s to early 1980s. With a refined pedaling style, he excelled on flat terrain and garnered numerous victories in prestigious races like the Giro d'Italia, Tour de France, and various monuments. His 273 road wins rank him as one of the top cyclists of all time. Moser also demonstrated his skills on the track, achieving success in various Six-Day races.

Joop Zoetemelk, a former professional cyclist from the Netherlands, is renowned for his exceptional accomplishments in the Tour de France. He holds records for the most starts (16) and the longest distance covered (62,885 km) in the race. Zoetemelk claimed victory in the 1979 Vuelta a España and the 1980 Tour de France, achieving eleven top 5 finishes in the Tour overall. Known for his climbing abilities, he earned the prestigious polka dot jersey as the King of the Mountains. Despite a doping incident in 1977, Zoetemelk maintained his status as a top contender in various championships.

Laurent Jalabert, also known as "Jaja," is a retired French professional road racing cyclist who competed from 1989 to 2002. Throughout his career, he achieved significant success by winning numerous one-day and stage races. He was ranked as the world's number 1 cyclist in 1995, 1996, 1997, and 1999. Despite not winning the Tour de France due to altitude sickness, he emerged victorious in the Vuelta a España in 1995. Jalabert's versatility and talent as a cyclist were evident in his multiple jersey classifications won across various races.

Roger De Vlaeminck, a Belgian former professional racing cyclist, was acclaimed as the most skilled classics rider of his time by Rik Van Looy. Renowned as "The Gypsy," he shone in cobbled classics such as Paris–Roubaix, earning him the moniker "Monsieur Paris–Roubaix." His exceptional performances in various Monument races cemented his status as a cycling icon. De Vlaeminck's impressive record sets him apart, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport with his remarkable abilities and accomplishments on the road.

Felice Gimondi, an Italian professional racing cyclist, was renowned for his exceptional accomplishments in road cycling. Known as "The Phoenix" for his remarkable comeback victories, Gimondi made history by triumphing in all three Grand Tours and three of the five Cycling monuments. Despite competing alongside cycling legend Eddy Merckx, he achieved multiple podium finishes in grand tours, solidifying his reputation as one of the era's greatest cyclists.

Davide Rebellin, an Italian professional road cyclist, was known for his success in classic races and stage events throughout his career from 1992 to 2022. He secured over sixty professional victories across twelve different teams. A highlight of his career was in 2004 when he achieved a rare treble by winning the Amstel Gold Race, La Flèche Wallonne, and Liège–Bastogne–Liège. Despite a doping suspension, Rebellin's talent and achievements cemented his status as one of the top classics specialists of his era.

Adri van der Poel, a prominent Dutch cyclist, enjoyed a successful professional career from 1981 to 2000. He secured notable victories, such as winning six classics, two Tour de France stages, and the 1996 World Cyclo-Cross Championships. Additionally, he earned a silver medal in the 1983 World Road Championships and achieved five second places in the World Cyclo-Cross Championships. In recognition of his accomplishments, the Grand Prix Adrie van der Poel was named in his honor.

Ellen van Dijk is a renowned Dutch professional road racing cyclist recognized for her exceptional skills in time trials. With numerous world championships and European titles under her belt, she has excelled in both road and track cycling. Transitioning from speed skating to cycling during her youth, van Dijk honed her talents through national competitions before committing full-time to cycling. Her participation in prestigious events such as the Olympic Games across various disciplines has not only contributed to team triumphs but has also secured remarkable individual achievements, establishing her as a formidable presence in the cycling realm.

Johan Museeuw, known as The Lion of Flanders, is a retired Belgian professional road racing cyclist who excelled in the cobbled classics of Flanders and Northern France. Active from 1988 to 2004, he is considered one of the top classic races specialists of the 1990s, having won the Tour of Flanders and Paris–Roubaix three times each. Museeuw also claimed the road world championship in 1996 and received the prestigious Vélo d'Or award that same year. His career includes multiple victories in classic cycle races and impressive achievements in the Tour de France and UCI Road World Cup.

Jeannie Longo, a revered French racing cyclist, has enjoyed a remarkable career exceeding three decades. She holds an impressive record of 60 French championships and 13 world championships, solidifying her status as a legendary figure in cycling. Longo's enduring competitive drive has made her a prominent figure in the sport, participating in seven Olympic Games and achieving four medals, including a gold, despite doping suspicions.

Paolo Bettini, a retired Italian road racing cyclist, was renowned for his exceptional skills in classics races. Throughout his career, he achieved great success by winning prestigious events such as Liège–Bastogne–Liège, Milan–San Remo, and the Giro di Lombardia. Bettini also secured gold medals in the 2004 Athens Olympics road race and the 2006 and 2007 World Road Race Championships. Known as "Il Grillo" (the cricket) due to his aggressive riding style and sprinting abilities, Bettini's impressive record includes victories in multiple World Cup events and stage races.

Nicole Denise Cooke, a retired Welsh professional road bicycle racer, gained recognition for her exceptional accomplishments in the cycling industry. Throughout her career, she secured titles as a Commonwealth, Olympic, and World road race champion. Notably, Cooke made history in 2008 as the first British woman to clinch a Gold Olympic medal in cycling at the Beijing Olympics. Her retirement in 2013 at the age of 29 marked the end of a successful career, leaving a significant impact on the cycling world.

Elisa Longo Borghini, an accomplished Italian professional road cyclist, is currently riding for the UCI Women's WorldTeam Lidl–Trek. She has achieved significant success throughout her career, winning the Giro d'Italia Women in 2024 and securing bronze medals in the road race at the Summer Olympic Games and the UCI Road World Championships. Longo Borghini has also triumphed in prestigious cycling events like the Tour of Flanders and Paris–Roubaix Femmes, demonstrating her talent and determination on the international stage.

Tony Rominger, a retired Swiss professional road racing cyclist, is renowned for his success in grand tours. He notably won the Vuelta a España three times consecutively from 1992 to 1994 and the Giro d'Italia in 1995. His exceptional performances in these prestigious races established him as one of the top cyclists of his time. Rominger's successful career and multiple grand tour victories have secured his place in cycling history.

Damiano Cunego, an Italian former professional road racing cyclist, had a successful career from 2002 to 2018. He competed for teams like Saeco, Lampre-Merida, and Nippo-Vini Fantini-Europa Ovini. Cunego's accomplishments include winning the 2004 Giro d'Italia, the 2008 Amstel Gold Race, and multiple Giro di Lombardia titles. Known as a climber, he also excelled in time-trialing and showed impressive sprinting skills. Noteworthy successes include second-place finishes in the UCI Road World Championships and the 2008 UCI ProTour.

Jesús Luis Ocaña Pernía, a Spanish road cyclist, was celebrated for his remarkable accomplishments in professional cycling. He claimed victory in the Tour de France in 1973 and the Vuelta a España in 1970. In the 1971 Tour de France, Ocaña made a bold solo breakaway that briefly earned him the Yellow Jersey before a crash ended his race prematurely. Despite challenges, he demonstrated consistent excellence in the Vuelta a España, achieving top 5 finishes seven consecutive times.

Samuel "Samu" Sánchez González, a retired Spanish professional road cyclist, competed from 2000 to 2017 for Euskaltel–Euskadi and BMC Racing Team. Renowned for his exceptional descending skills, Sánchez excelled in hilly classics and stage races, achieving significant success. He notably clinched the gold medal in the road race at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and secured high rankings in prestigious events like the Tour de France and Vuelta a España. Sánchez also claimed victories in the Vuelta a Burgos in 2010, the 2012 Tour of the Basque Country, and multiple stages in the Vuelta a España.

Alex Zülle enjoyed a successful professional cycling career in the 1990s, emerging as a top global cyclist. He secured notable victories such as winning the Vuelta a España in 1996 and 1997, and finishing second in the Tour de France in 1995 and 1999. Zülle's strength in time trials was highlighted when he became the world time-trial champion in Lugano in 1996. His consistent achievements and competitive drive established him as a strong contender in the realm of road bicycle racing.

Phil Anderson, an Australian former professional racing cyclist, is renowned for his historic accomplishments in the sport. He notably became the first non-European cyclist to don the prestigious yellow jersey of the Tour de France, marking a significant milestone. Anderson's exceptional skill and unwavering determination positioned him as a trailblazer in the cycling world. His lasting impact and inspirational legacy have solidified his status as a legendary figure in professional cycling.

Freddy Maertens, a Belgian professional racing cyclist, was renowned for his road racing success. Throughout his career, he achieved over 50 wins in a single season but also faced challenging periods with minimal victories. Maertens had notable triumphs in Grand Tour stages, yet he encountered setbacks due to injuries. His cycling accomplishments drew comparisons to Eddy Merckx, another famous Belgian rider, leading to debates among fans and media.

Óscar Freire Gómez, a Spanish former professional road bicycle racer, was widely recognized for his exceptional sprinting abilities in road cycling. He enjoyed a successful career, securing victory in the world championship three times and Milan–San Remo three times. As he evolved into a classics rider, he added wins in the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España to his impressive record. Freire's distinctive training regimen, which emphasized shorter distances compared to other cyclists, highlighted his innovative methods and unwavering dedication to the sport.

Claudio Chiappucci, an Italian retired professional cyclist, is renowned for his achievements in the Tour de France. He secured podium finishes three times in the general classification, taking second place in 1990, third in 1991, and second again in 1992. Chiappucci's aggressive riding style and proficiency in mountainous terrain distinguished him, earning him a reputation as a formidable competitor in Grand Tours. Throughout his career, he captivated cycling enthusiasts with his performances and became a beloved figure in the sport.

Louison Bobet was a renowned French professional road racing cyclist who dominated the post-war era. He secured multiple notable victories during his career, notably clinching the Tour de France three years in a row from 1953 to 1955. Additionally, Bobet triumphed in esteemed races like the national road championship, Milan–San Remo, Giro di Lombardia, and Paris–Roubaix. His remarkable successes established him as one of the premier cyclists of his generation.

Pedro Delgado Robledo, known as Perico, is a Spanish retired professional road cyclist with a successful career. He emerged victorious in the 1988 Tour de France and the 1985 and 1989 Vuelta a España. Delgado achieved top 10 placements in eighteen Grand Tours. Although he tested positive for a masking agent during the 1988 Tour, he was allowed to continue competing as the substance was not yet prohibited by the sport's governing body. Presently, Delgado works as a sports commentator for Televisión Española, covering major cycling events.

Alfredo Binda was a renowned Italian road cyclist in the 1920s and 1930s, celebrated for his extraordinary accomplishments in the sport. He was the first cyclist to win five Giro d'Italia editions and claimed three world championship titles. Binda's achievements extended internationally with victories in races like Milan–San Remo and the Tour of Lombardy. His legacy as a cycling icon was cemented when he later managed the Italian National team, guiding famous cyclists like Fausto Coppi, Gino Bartali, and Gastone Nencini to success at the Tour de France.

Rik Van Looy, a Belgian professional cyclist, was known as the King of the Classics for his outstanding performance in classic cycle races in the late 1950s and early 1960s. He was a two-time world professional road race champion and the first cyclist to conquer all five 'Monuments,' the most prestigious one-day classics in cycling. Van Looy achieved an impressive total of 367 professional road victories, placing him second in the all-time rankings behind Eddy Merckx. Throughout his career, he engaged in fierce sporting rivalries with cycling icons Rik Van Steenbergen and Eddy Merckx, despite facing numerous falls and injuries.

Gianni Bugno, a retired Italian professional road racing cyclist, is well-known for his successful career in the sport. Throughout his time as a professional cyclist, Bugno achieved numerous victories and accolades, establishing himself as one of the top competitors in the field. He displayed exceptional skill and endurance in various road racing events, earning a reputation for his strategic racing style and determination on the track. Bugno's contributions to the sport have left a lasting impact on the cycling community and inspired many aspiring athletes.

Lucien Van Impe, a Belgian cyclist, competed professionally from 1969 to 1987. Renowned for his exceptional climbing skills, he dominated multiple-day races such as the Tour de France. Van Impe secured a memorable victory in the 1976 Tour de France and clinched the mountains classification title six times during this prestigious event. Throughout his career, he consistently demonstrated remarkable strength and endurance on demanding terrains, establishing himself as one of the premier climbers in professional cycling.

Jan Janssen, a Dutch ex-pro cyclist, gained notable achievements from 1962 to 1972. He was the first Dutch cyclist to win the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España. Janssen competed in the Tour de France eight times, winning seven stages and wearing the yellow jersey twice. Recognized for his blond hair and glasses, he is the oldest living Tour de France champion since Federico Bahamontes passed away.

Giuseppe Saronni, also known as Beppe Saronni, is a retired Italian cyclist renowned for his successful career in the Giro d'Italia. Throughout his cycling journey, he secured victory in 24 stages of the prestigious race and delivered commendable performances in multiple editions. Following his retirement, Saronni assumed an advisory position at the UCI WorldTeam UAE Team Emirates. In this role, he leverages his wealth of knowledge and experience to bolster the team's performance and growth within the realm of professional cycling.

Rolf Sørensen is a former Danish professional road bicycle racer who is now known for his work as a cycling commentator and agent. He gained the nickname "Il Biondo" due to his blonde hair. Sørensen's professional career took off when he moved to Italy at a young age and continued to live there. He has achieved success in the world of cycling and now shares his expertise and insights with audiences as a commentator, while also representing cyclists as an agent.

Lorena Wiebes, a successful Dutch racing cyclist, competes for UCI Women's WorldTeam Team SD Worx–Protime. She has excelled in prestigious events like the UCI Road World Championships and the European Games, earning gold medals. In 2022, Wiebes continued her winning streak by winning the RideLondon Classique and the Tour de France Femmes, showcasing her sprinting and endurance abilities. Her consistent victories have established her as a formidable competitor in professional cycling.

Viatcheslav Ekimov, also known as Eki, is a highly accomplished former professional racing cyclist from Russia. Throughout his career, he achieved significant success, winning three Olympic gold medals in cycling. In recognition of his outstanding achievements, he was honored with the title of Russian Cyclist of the Century in 2001. Ekimov's dedication, skill, and determination on the race track have solidified his reputation as one of the most talented and successful cyclists of his generation.

Leontien van Moorsel is a Dutch retired racing cyclist known for her dominance in the 1990s and early 2000s. She achieved significant success by winning four gold medals at the Olympic Games and holding the hour record for women from 2003 until 2015. Her professional career was marked by exceptional achievements in cycling, solidifying her reputation as one of the most successful and talented cyclists of her time. Van Moorsel's dedication and skill in the sport earned her widespread recognition and admiration in the cycling world.

Gerrie Knetemann, a Dutch road bicycle racer, had a successful professional career. He won the World Championship in 1978 and was renowned for his victories in the Yellow Jersey at the Tour de France. Throughout his career, Knetemann achieved a total of 127 wins as a professional cyclist and secured victory in the Ronde van Nederland four times. Additionally, he played a key role in Joop Zoetemelk's triumph in the 1980 Tour de France, contributing to his team's success in winning twelve stages.

Kirsten Wild is a retired professional racing cyclist from the Netherlands who had a successful career from 2004 to 2021. Competing for eight professional teams, she excelled in both track and road cycling. Wild's accomplishments include winning a bronze medal in the omnium event at multiple Summer Olympic Games, as well as securing numerous medals at the UCI Track Cycling World Championships and the UEC European Track Championships. On the road, Wild achieved over 100 victories in road racing and earned two medals at the UCI Road World Championships.

Jan Raas, a Dutch retired professional cyclist, achieved 115 victories in his career. His wins include the World Road Race Championship, Tour of Flanders, Paris–Roubaix, and Milan–San Remo. Raas also triumphed in ten stages of the Tour de France and won the Amstel Gold Race five times. Known for his tactical skills and sprinting abilities, Raas excelled in the northern classics, although he faced challenges on long steep climbs. He competed in 23 Monument Races, earning podium finishes in nearly half of them.

Michael Boogerd, a former Dutch professional road bicycle racer, rose to prominence among Dutch cyclists in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Renowned for his leadership abilities, he played a pivotal role alongside Erik Dekker and Leontien van Moorsel in a successful generation of Dutch cyclists. Boogerd's career was characterized by remarkable performances in numerous road races, highlighting his talent and commitment to the sport. His accomplishments and influence have had a lasting effect on the cycling community.

Hennie Kuiper was a highly successful Dutch professional road racing cyclist, known for his achievements in major competitions such as the Olympic road race and the world professional road race. He won a gold medal at the 1972 Munich Olympics and became world professional road race champion in 1975. Kuiper also secured victories in four out of the five "Monument" classics and participated in the Tour de France 12 times, finishing as runner-up twice. He is one of the few cyclists to have triumphed in both the Olympic road race and the world professional road race.

Fiorenzo Magni was a celebrated Italian professional road racing cyclist with an exceptional career. He earned a formidable reputation for his numerous prestigious race wins and remarkable skill on the road. Magni's legacy in the cycling world is marked by his victories and contributions, establishing him as a legendary figure in road racing.

Chantal van den Broek-Blaak is a highly accomplished Dutch road racing cyclist. She currently represents UCI Women's WorldTeam Team SD Worx–Protime. In 2017, she achieved a significant milestone in her career by winning the world road race championship in Bergen, Norway. Her impressive skills and dedication have solidified her reputation as a top cyclist in the professional cycling world. Van den Broek-Blaak's continued success and contributions to the sport have earned her admiration and respect from both fans and fellow athletes alike.

Judith Arndt enjoyed a successful professional cycling career, representing Germany at prestigious international competitions. Her achievements include winning a bronze medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics and claiming the world road race championship title in 2004. Arndt also excelled in the Olympic road race, finishing as the runner-up. She showcased her talent and dedication while riding for renowned teams like GreenEDGE-AIS, leaving a lasting impact on the cycling world.

Emma Karolina Johansson is a Swedish retired professional racing cyclist known as Silver Emma. She achieved numerous second and third-place finishes in major championships and one-day classics, earning the top spot on the UCI Women's World Ranking in 2013. Johansson won silver medals at the 2008 and 2016 Summer Olympics, as well as multiple medals at the Road World Championships. She excelled in stage races, winning prestigious events such as the Thüringen Rundfahrt der Frauen and the Emakumeen Euskal Bira multiple times. Johansson also secured victories in various one-day races and stages of the Giro d'Italia Femminile.

Rik Van Steenbergen, a legendary Belgian racing cyclist, was celebrated for his exceptional talent and numerous victories. Dominating the cycling scene in the 1940s and 1950s, he was revered as one of the greatest Belgian cyclists of his time. Renowned for his sprinting prowess and tactical skills, Van Steenbergen clinched victories in prestigious races such as the World Road Race Championship three times and numerous classic races. His remarkable career and stellar performances on the cycling circuit cemented his legacy as a true icon in the sport.

Maurizio Fondriest had a remarkable career as an Italian professional road racing cyclist, earning a reputation for his exceptional skills and endurance. His numerous victories, especially in one-day races and classics, highlighted his ability to perform well in different terrains and conditions. Fondriest's tactical racing prowess and impressive sprinting abilities distinguished him from his peers, leading to victories in prestigious races. His lasting impact in the cycling community continues to inspire aspiring cyclists.

Steven Rooks is a renowned former Dutch professional road racing cyclist celebrated for his remarkable climbing abilities. His successful career, which lasted from 1982 to 1995, was marked by his prowess in mountainous stages, where he consistently demonstrated his exceptional climbing skills in top-tier races. Rooks garnered significant victories and earned a reputation as a highly skilled rider in the cycling world. His competitive spirit and outstanding performances left a lasting impression on the sport during his time as a professional cyclist.

Ferdinand Kübler, a renowned Swiss cyclist, had a remarkable professional journey marked by 71 victories. His notable achievements include winning the 1950 Tour de France and the 1951 World Road Race Championship. Kübler's exceptional cycling abilities and unwavering determination earned him respect in the cycling realm, where he showcased his talent and fierce competitive spirit on prestigious stages. His legacy endures as a highly skilled athlete and a revered champion in the cycling community.

André Darrigade, a French professional road cyclist, gained fame for his exceptional sprinting skills during his career from 1951 to 1966. He clinched numerous significant wins, including the World Championship in 1959 and 22 stage victories in the Tour de France. Darrigade's prowess was especially evident on opening days, with a record for the most wins on the Tour's initial day, a record later matched by Fabian Cancellara in 2012.

Amber Neben is a highly accomplished American racing cyclist with a successful career in the sport. She has competed for UCI Women's Continental Team Cogeas–Mettler–Look and has secured impressive victories, such as winning the UCI world time trial championship in 2008 and 2016. In addition, she has clinched the U.S. national road race championship in 2003 and 2017. Neben's dedication and exceptional skills have established her as a top cyclist in the professional racing circuit, earning her numerous accolades throughout her career.

Costante Girardengo, an Italian professional road bicycle racer, was celebrated for his exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. Referred to as a "Campionissimo" by the Italian media and fans, he surpassed Mussolini in popularity in the 1920s. Throughout his career, Girardengo secured victories in prestigious races such as the Giro d'Italia, Milan-San Remo, and Giro di Lombardia multiple times. Despite challenges like World War I, he maintained his dominance in Italian cycling, earning the title of the world's number one cyclist on several occasions.

Claude Criquielion was a Belgian professional road bicycle racer from 1979 to 1990. He achieved success with a world road race championship win in 1984 and had notable performances in the Tour de France, securing five top-ten finishes. Despite a controversial incident during the 1988 world road race championship, he continued to contribute to cycling as a director sportif and team manager. Criquielion's career faced scrutiny with a positive drug test in 1985, causing a backlash but no resulting repercussions.

Lisa Brennauer had a successful professional cycling career from 2009 to 2022. She achieved numerous accolades both on the track and road, including winning gold at the 2020 Olympics in the women's team pursuit and setting a world record. In addition, she secured two gold medals at the 2021 UCI Track Cycling World Championships and triumphed in various UEC European Track Championships. On the road, Brennauer was part of three consecutive team time trial world championship victories, claimed individual time trial and mixed team relay world titles, and won multiple national road titles and prestigious stage races.

Eric Vanderaerden achieved success as a road cyclist, winning prestigious races like prologue time trials in the Vuelta a España and Tour de France, as well as stages in the Tour de France and iconic races such as the Tour of Flanders and Paris–Roubaix. He was particularly strong in time trials but had challenges in mountainous terrains. Following his cycling career, he transitioned into team management roles and eventually became a directeur sportif with the DFL-Cyclingnews-Litespeed team, where his son Michael also joined the team.

Charly Mottet enjoyed a successful professional cycling career spanning from 1983 to 1994, establishing himself as one of the leading French road cyclists of his time. He amassed numerous victories and accolades, highlighting his exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to the sport. Competing in prestigious races, Mottet consistently delivered outstanding performances, earning widespread respect and admiration in the cycling sphere. His legacy as a skilled and accomplished cyclist serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes in the cycling community.