Eddy Merckx, often hailed as the greatest cyclist of all time, has left an indelible mark on the sport through an extraordinary journey defined by his unmatched success and relentless pursuit of victory. Born on June 17, 1945, in Meensel-Kiezegem, Belgium, Merckx’s rise to prominence began in the 1960s, and his dominance throughout the 1970s earned him the nickname “The Cannibal” for his insatiable appetite for victories.
Merckx’s career is a testament to his versatility and resilience. He was not only a formidable road racer but also excelled in track cycling, making him a true all-rounder. His list of achievements is staggering, with a record 11 Grand Tour victories, including five Tour de France titles, five Giro d’Italia titles, and one Vuelta a España victory. Merckx’s five Tour de France wins (1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, and 1974) are particularly notable, as he was the first cyclist to win the Tour, the Giro, and the Vuelta—a rare feat known as the Triple Crown—in a single year (1974).
Merckx’s success was not limited to the Grand Tours. He won 19 Monument Classics, including seven Milan-San Remo victories, which remains a record. His dominance extended to the World Championships, where he claimed three road race titles. Merckx’s ability to win in a variety of races, from single-day classics to multi-week tours, set him apart from his contemporaries and cemented his legacy as the most complete cyclist in history.
Even in retirement, Merckx’s influence on the sport endures. He remains actively involved in cycling, both as a promoter of the sport and as an inspiration to current and future generations of cyclists. Merckx has also lent his name to a successful line of bicycles, further cementing his legacy within the industry.
In recent years, Merckx has continued to be a revered figure in the cycling world. His opinions and insights are highly sought after, and he is often seen at major cycling events, including the Tour de France, where his presence is a reminder of the golden era of cycling. Eddy Merckx’s journey is one of unparalleled success, and his legacy as “The Cannibal” will forever be etched in the annals of cycling history.