Greg LeMond

Greg LeMond is a retired American professional cyclist who is widely considered one of the greatest cyclists in Tour de France history. Born in Lakewood, California, in 1961, LeMond became the first American to win the Tour de France in 1986, and he went on to win the prestigious race again in 1989 and 1990. His victories in the 1989 Tour de France are particularly legendary, as he made a dramatic comeback in the final time trial to defeat Laurent Fignon by just 8 seconds, one of the closest margins in the race’s history.

LeMond’s career was defined by his versatility, strength, and determination. In addition to his Tour de France victories, he won three World Championship titles and numerous other races, including the 1983 Paris-Roubaix and 1981 Tour of Italy. Known for his ability to perform well in time trials and climbing, LeMond became a symbol of American cycling and helped bring the sport into the mainstream in the United States. His accomplishments were all the more impressive given the obstacles he overcame, including a serious hunting accident in 1987, which left him with life-threatening injuries but did not stop his return to competitive racing.

LeMond’s views on cycling and competition were often marked by his belief in dedication and mental toughness. He once said, "It’s not about how good you are, it’s about how good you want to be." This mindset, coupled with his relentless work ethic, helped him achieve greatness in one of the most physically demanding sports in the world. LeMond’s impact on cycling remains significant, not only for his triumphs but also for his advocacy of clean cycling and his efforts to inspire new generations of riders.