Famous French Cyclists

Bernard Hinault, a French former professional road cyclist, achieved 147 professional victories, including five Tour de France wins. Known as "The Badger," he dominated the cycling world, winning Grand Tours and classics. Hinault signed with Gitane–Campagnolo in 1975 and quickly rose to success, triumphing in races like Liège–Bastogne–Liège and the Vuelta a España. Despite injuries, he continued to excel, showcasing his aggressive nature on the bike and serving as a respected figure within the peloton until his retirement in 1986.

Jacques Anquetil, a French road racing cyclist, made history by becoming the first to win the Tour de France five times. Known for his bold declarations and ability to back them up, he dominated stage races with his exceptional time trial skills, earning him the nickname "Monsieur Chrono." Throughout his career, he won a total of eight Grand Tours, a record at the time of his retirement. Anquetil's legacy as a cycling legend has been surpassed only by Eddy Merckx and Bernard Hinault.

Marion Rousse is a French former racing cyclist who won the French national road race title in 2012. After retiring from racing in 2015, she transitioned to a successful career as a pundit for Eurosport and France Télévisions. In addition, she has taken on roles as deputy director of the Tour de la Provence and race director of the Tour de France Femmes. Rousse has demonstrated her expertise and passion for cycling through various professional endeavors within the sport.

Julian Alaphilippe is a French professional road cyclist and former cyclo-cross racer. He is a two-time UCI World Road Champion and currently rides for UCI WorldTeam Soudal–Quick-Step. Known for his aggressive riding style and climbing abilities, Alaphilippe has achieved success in both one-day classics and stage races. He has garnered a reputation as a versatile and dynamic rider, capable of competing in various race formats and terrains. Alaphilippe's passion for cycling and determination to succeed have made him a prominent figure in the professional cycling world.

David Gaudu is a prominent French professional cyclist affiliated with the UCI WorldTeam Groupama-FDJ. Known for his impressive cycling skills, Gaudu has made a name for himself in the competitive world of cycling. He has showcased his talent and determination in numerous races, demonstrating his ability to navigate challenging terrains and compete at the highest level. Gaudu's dedication to the sport and his team has earned him recognition and respect among fans and fellow cyclists alike.

Henri Desgrange was a prominent figure in the world of cycling, known for his accomplishments both as a cyclist and as a sports journalist. He set numerous world track cycling records, including the prestigious hour record, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. Desgrange's most enduring legacy is being the visionary behind the creation of the Tour de France, the iconic and grueling cycling race that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. His contributions to the cycling world have left a lasting impact on the sport's history and development.

Éric Barone is a renowned French cyclist known for holding the world downhill speed record for both snow and gravel terrains. He achieved a remarkable speed of 227.720 kilometers per hour on snow in Vars, France, and 172 kilometers per hour on gravel at the Cerro Negro volcano in Nicaragua. Nicknamed "Baron Rouge," he has garnered international recognition for his exceptional cycling skills and daring achievements in extreme downhill biking, solidifying his status as a legendary figure in the cycling world.

Laurent Fignon was a prominent French professional road bicycle racer, known for his impressive victories in prestigious cycling events such as the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia. He achieved Tour de France wins in 1983 and 1984, held the title of FICP World No. 1 in 1989, and won the Giro d'Italia in the same year. Fignon's career was highlighted by his rivalry with Greg LeMond, particularly in the 1989 Tour de France, where he narrowly lost in a historic finish. His success also extended to classic races like Milan–San Remo. Tragically, he passed away from cancer in 2010.

Romain Bardet is a French professional racing cyclist known for his climbing and descending abilities. He rides for UCI WorldTeam Team DSM–Firmenich PostNL. Bardet has achieved significant success primarily in France, winning four stages in the Tour de France and placing in the top ten overall for five consecutive years. He has also secured podium finishes in the Tour de France, won classification jerseys, and earned accolades such as the Combativity Award. Additionally, he has claimed victories outside of France, including a stage win at the Vuelta a España and the general classification at the Tour of the Alps.

Pauline Ferrand-Prévot is a highly accomplished French bicycle racer known for her versatility in multiple disciplines. She competes for UCI Mountain Bike team Ineos Grenadiers in cross-country cycling, having also excelled in road racing and cyclo-cross. Ferrand-Prévot made history in 2015 by simultaneously holding the World road, cyclo-cross, and cross-country mountain bike titles. Throughout her career, she has secured numerous national, world, and Olympic championships, showcasing her exceptional talent and dominance in the sport at the highest levels.

Nicolas Portal was a French professional road bicycle racer who transitioned into a successful career as a directeur sportif. He faced setbacks in 2009 due to cardiac arrhythmia, leading to his retirement as a cyclist in 2010. Portal then joined Team Sky as a manager in 2011 and later became the lead directeur sportif for the team in 2013. Tragically, he passed away from a heart attack in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and leadership in the world of cycling.

Arnaud Démare is a successful professional road racing cyclist currently riding for UCI WorldTeam Arkéa–B&B Hotels. He has achieved significant victories throughout his career, including winning the UCI World Under-23 Road Race Championships in 2011 and the prestigious Milan–San Remo in 2016. Démare's talent and dedication have also earned him the distinction of winning the French National Road Race Championships three times, in 2014, 2017, and 2020. His impressive track record and consistent performance have solidified his reputation as a top cyclist in the sport.

Guillaume Martin is a talented French cyclist competing at the professional level for UCI WorldTeam Cofidis. Known for his strong climbing abilities and consistent performances in stage races, Martin has established himself as a prominent figure in the world of cycling. With a focus on Grand Tours and stage races, he has proven to be a strong contender in the mountains, often showcasing his skills on challenging terrain. Martin's dedication and determination have earned him respect and recognition within the cycling community.

Julien Absalon is a retired French cross-country mountain biker who competed professionally from 2001 to 2018. He is widely regarded as one of the most successful cross-country cyclists in history. Absalon achieved numerous accolades including two Olympic gold medals, five World Championships, seven UCI World Cup overall titles, and 33 World Cup round wins. He dominated the French cross-country championships and also secured victories in multiple European Championships. Absalon's remarkable career and impressive achievements solidify his legacy as a legendary figure in the sport.

Loïc Bruni is a professional downhill mountain biker known for his exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. Alongside his athletic pursuits, he manages his academic responsibilities as a student at Skema Business School. Bruni's dedication to mountain biking has seen him compete at the highest levels of the sport, consistently showcasing his talent and determination on challenging downhill courses around the world. His passion for biking and commitment to his education highlight his well-rounded approach to both his professional and academic pursuits.

Maurice Alain Farman was a prominent figure in the early days of aviation in Europe. Initially successful as a tandem cyclist and Grand Prix motor racing champion, his focus soon shifted to powered flight. He set world records for endurance and speed in 1909 and went on to establish himself as an accomplished aviator, aircraft manufacturer, and designer. Farman's contributions to the aviation industry were significant, culminating in the founding of the Farman Aviation Works in partnership with his brother.

Raymond Poulidor, known as "Pou-Pou," was a French professional racing cyclist who spent his entire career riding for Mercier. His career overlapped with cycling legends Jacques Anquetil and Eddy Merckx. Despite his consistent performance, Poulidor never won the Tour de France, earning the nickname "The Eternal Second" for finishing second three times and third five times. He won the 1964 Vuelta a España and placed in the top 10 in fifteen out of eighteen Grand Tours he entered, showcasing his enduring talent and perseverance in competitive cycling.

Maurice-François Garin was an accomplished road bicycle racer who made history by winning the first-ever Tour de France in 1903. Despite his initial success, he faced controversy and was stripped of his title in the following year's Tour de France due to cheating allegations. Garin, originally of Italian origin, later adopted French nationality, showcasing his commitment to the sport and his determination to compete at the highest level. His professional career was marked by both triumph and controversy, leaving a lasting impact on the cycling world.

Thibaut Pinot is a former professional road bicycle racer from France who competed for Française des Jeux from 2010 to 2023. Known for his promising talent, he achieved significant success during his career, finishing third overall in the 2014 Tour de France and winning the young rider classification. He has claimed stage victories in all three Grand Tours, including multiple wins in the Tour de France. With over thirty professional wins to his name, highlights include winning the Giro di Lombardia in 2018 and the mountains classification at the 2023 Giro d'Italia.

Laurent Jalabert is a retired French professional road racing cyclist who competed from 1989 to 2002. Known as "Jaja," he achieved significant success during his career, winning numerous one-day and stage races. He was ranked as the world's number 1 cyclist in 1995, 1996, 1997, and 1999. While he never won the Tour de France due to altitude sickness, he claimed victory in the Vuelta a España in 1995. Jalabert also excelled in winning multiple jersey classifications in various races, showcasing his versatility and talent as a cyclist.

Robert Marchand was a distinguished French centenarian cyclist known for his remarkable achievements in the cycling world. He held the world record for cycling 100 km and for the distance cycled in one hour in the 100–104 and over-105 years old age categories. Marchand's dedication and passion for cycling were evident through his exceptional performances, inspiring many with his feats. His legacy as a record-breaking cyclist will be remembered for years to come, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

Richard Virenque is a retired French professional road racing cyclist known for his climbing abilities and popularity among fans. He won the King of the Mountains competition in the Tour de France a record seven times. However, his career was marred by involvement in the Festina Affair, a doping scandal in 1998. Despite evidence implicating him, Virenque repeatedly denied his involvement in doping. He remains a controversial figure in the cycling world due to his association with this scandal.

Antonin Magne was a highly successful French cyclist who competed professionally from 1927 to 1939. He achieved notable victories by winning the Tour de France in 1931 and 1934. After retiring from racing, Magne transitioned into a role as a team manager, where he continued to contribute to the sport. Known for his reserved and introverted demeanor, he was dubbed "The Monk" during his racing days due to his quiet and solitary nature. His legacy in cycling is marked by his impressive accomplishments and unique personality.

Louison Bobet was a highly successful French professional road racing cyclist, known for his dominance in the post-war era. He achieved numerous significant victories throughout his career, including winning the Tour de France in three consecutive years from 1953 to 1955. Bobet also claimed victories in prestigious races such as the national road championship, Milan–San Remo, Giro di Lombardia, and Paris–Roubaix. His impressive achievements solidified his reputation as one of the greatest cyclists of his time.

Jeannie Longo is a highly accomplished French racing cyclist with an impressive career spanning over three decades. She has amassed an incredible 60 French championships and 13 world championships throughout her time in the sport. Longo's competitive spirit and longevity in cycling have made her a legendary figure in the sport. Despite the cloud of suspicion surrounding doping allegations, she has left a lasting impact on the cycling world, participating in seven Olympic Games and securing four medals, including one gold.

Pierre Trentin is a retired French cyclist known for his success in sprint track events. He competed professionally from 1961 to 1984, earning numerous accolades including two gold and two bronze Olympic medals, and 11 medals at world championships. While primarily excelling in sprint events, he also won the junior champion of France title in 1961. Notably, Trentin set an unusual Olympic record alongside Giovanni Pettenella for standing still for 21 minutes and 57 seconds during the semi-final of the 1,000 meters sprint at the Tokyo Olympic Games.

François Faber was a prominent Luxembourgian racing cyclist known for his remarkable achievements in the sport. He made history by becoming the first foreigner to win the Tour de France in 1909 and set a record by winning 5 consecutive stages. Faber was recognized for his exceptional solo performances, leading solo for over 1000 km in Tour de France history. Tragically, his professional career was cut short when he lost his life during World War I while fighting for France.

Roger Beaufrand was a distinguished athlete who made history as the world's oldest Olympic gold medal winner. He achieved this milestone by winning a gold medal in Olympic sprint at the 1928 Summer Olympics. His exceptional athletic abilities and dedication to his sport were evident throughout his career, culminating in receiving the Chevalier class of the Legion of Honor shortly before his passing. Beaufrand's legacy as an Olympic champion continues to inspire individuals in the world of sports and beyond.

Charly Mottet had a successful professional cycling career from 1983 to 1994. He was known as one of the top French road cyclists during his era. Mottet achieved numerous victories and accolades throughout his career, showcasing his exceptional skills and dedication to the sport. He competed in various prestigious races and consistently performed at a high level, earning respect and recognition within the cycling community. Mottet's legacy as a talented and accomplished cyclist continues to inspire and influence aspiring athletes in the cycling world.

André Leducq was a highly successful French cyclist known for his victories in prestigious cycling events. He achieved the remarkable feat of winning the Tours de France in 1930 and 1932, solidifying his reputation as a top cyclist of his time. Leducq also secured a gold medal in the team road race event at the 1924 Summer Olympics and emerged victorious in the 1928 Paris–Roubaix race. His professional career was marked by numerous achievements and accolades, showcasing his exceptional talent and determination in the world of cycling.

Laurent Gané is a former French professional track cyclist who achieved notable success in his career. He was honored with the Vélo d'Or français award in 1999 and 2003, recognized by a panel of French journalists for his outstanding performances. Gané's skill and dedication to cycling were evident throughout his professional life, showcasing his talent on the track. His achievements and contributions to the sport have solidified his legacy as a respected figure in the world of cycling.

Bernard Thévenet is a retired professional cyclist known for his successful career in the sport. He began his journey with ACBB Paris and went on to achieve significant accomplishments, including being a two-time winner of the Tour de France. Thévenet is famously remembered for defeating the dominant Eddy Merckx in the Tour de France. However, his achievements were later overshadowed by his admission of using steroids during his career. He also secured victories in the Dauphiné Libéré in 1975 and 1976.

André Darrigade was a French professional road bicycle racer known for his sprinting abilities. He had a successful career spanning from 1951 to 1966, during which he achieved several notable victories. Darrigade won the World Championship in 1959 and secured 22 stage wins in the Tour de France. Particularly renowned for his performances on opening days, he holds the record for the most victories on the first day of the Tour, a feat equaled by Fabian Cancellara in 2012.