In a retrospective look at the cycling universe, the prominent figure of Édouard Louis Joseph Merckx, globally recognized as Eddy Merckx, emerges. This Belgian, nicknamed “The Cannibal” due to his exceptional physical ability to compete in various cycling disciplines, is celebrated as one of the greatest cyclists of all time. His victorious journey includes three titles in the Road Cycling World Championship, five victories in the Giro d’Italia, three triumphs in the Tour de France (including a win in the Tour of Spain), and the prestigious five Monuments of Cycling: Tour of Flanders, Milan-San Remo, Paris-Roubaix, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, and Giro di Lombardia.
In 1974, Eddy Merckx reached the pinnacle by achieving the Triple Crown, a rare feat involving winning the Tour de France, the Giro d’Italia, and the Cycling World Cup in the same year. This extraordinary accomplishment, shared by only a few, including the Irishman Stephen Roche, stands as proof of Merckx’s tireless dedication, effort, and physical talent.
His humble and charismatic personality has always captivated the public, solidifying his place as a legend in the cycling world. If cycling is one of your great interests, and you want to explore more about the personal and professional life of one of the greatest cyclists in history, this article is a must-read!
1. EDDY MERCKX’S ORIGINS:
Born on June 17, 1945, in Meensel-Kiezegem, Belgium, Eddy Merckx grew up in the Flanders region. His parents, who owned a grocery store in Brussels, provided a simple and humble childhood. The influence of his father, who encouraged persistence and hard work, shaped Merckx’s mindset from a young age.
2. FIRST BICYCLE AT 8 YEARS OLD:
Merckx’s passion for cycling blossomed at the age of 8 when his parents gifted him a used road bicycle. Inspired by the career of Stan Ockers, a prominent Belgian cyclist, Merckx began exploring his hometown, Laeken, in Brussels.
3. CHALLENGES IN SCHOOL AND THE BET ON CYCLING
With a lack of interest in academics, Merckx sought refuge in the sports offered by school. Poor grades led him to abandon his studies, facing resistance from his father. However, his passion for cycling spoke louder.
4. START OF HIS CYCLING CAREER:
In 1961, at the age of 16, Merckx participated in his first cycling race in Laeken, Brussels. After a modest start, he clinched his first title at the Amateur World Championship three years later. In 1965, he embarked on his professional career, marking the beginning of an impressive streak of victories.
5. RETIREMENT IN 1977:
In 1977, Eddy Merckx competed in his last race as a professional cyclist at the World Cycling Championship in San Cristóbal, Venezuela. Despite not achieving the desired position, Merckx concluded his professional career, announcing retirement the following year, marking the end of over two decades of high-performance cycling.
6. LIFE AFTER RETIREMENT
After retirement in 1978, Merckx embarked on a new cycling-related venture: the creation of a bicycle brand bearing his name. Since 1980, the brand has been producing professionally designed Belgian road bicycles, known for their distinction and simplicity, catering to passionate cyclists.
7. FAMILY LIFE AND LEGACY
Merckx teve dois filhos, Sabrina e Axel, frutos de seu casamento com Claudine Acou em 1967. Axel Merckx seguiu os passos do pai, tornando-se um ciclista de sucesso e, posteriormente, gerente geral da equipe de ciclismo dos EUA Hagens Berman Axeon.
8. GRANDSON AND PROFESSIONAL ATHLETE
Eddy Merckx’s grandson, Luca Massó, son of his daughter Sabrina, became a professional field hockey player, earning a gold medal with the Argentine national team.
9 .INVOLVEMENT IN THE TOUR OF QATAR
In addition to founding his bicycle brand, Merckx played significant roles such as director of the Belgian National Cycling Team and director of the Tour of Flanders. He stands out as a co-owner of the Tour of Qatar since 2002.
10. DOPING INCIDENT IN 1969:
In 1969, Merckx was disqualified from the Giro d’Italia after testing positive for amphetamines. Following appeals, the UCI overturned the sanction, raising speculations about a possible conspiracy by the Italian Federation.
Reflecting on the achievements and challenges of Eddy Merckx, it is undeniable that his dedication, talent, and passion for cycling elevated him to unparalleled heights. With over 500 victories throughout his career, including the Triple Crown, Merckx is a true cycling legend, fully deserving the titles he carries.