Eddy Merckx is widely regarded as one of the greatest cyclists of all time. Born in Belgium in 1945, Merckx dominated the sport during the 1960s and 1970s. His list of accomplishments is extensive, including winning the Tour de France five times (1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, and 1974), the Giro d’Italia five times (1968, 1970, 1972, 1973, and 1974), and the Vuelta a España once (1973). He also won numerous one-day classics such as Milan-San Remo, Paris-Roubaix, and the Tour of Flanders.
Merckx’s dominance was not limited to road cycling; he also achieved success in track cycling, setting world records in various disciplines. His relentless drive, exceptional endurance, and competitive spirit earned him the nickname “The Cannibal.” Even after his retirement from professional cycling, Merckx’s influence on the sport remains significant, and he is still revered as a legend in cycling circles.
Height and Weight
Eddy Merckx is approximately 1.82 meters (5 ft 11+1⁄2 in) tall and weighed around 75 kilograms (165 pounds) during his cycling career. These measurements may have varied slightly throughout his career, as athletes often undergo changes in weight and body composition due to training, racing, and other factors.
Bike Size
During his racing career, Merckx typically rode bikes with frames that were around 56 to 58 centimeters (22 to 23 inches) in size, measured from the center of the bottom bracket to the top of the seat tube.
What was Eddy Merckx’s last professional race?
In Eddy Merckx’s last professional race, the Omloop van het Waasland (Circuit Waasland) on 19 March 1979, he finished in 12th place. Despite being a shadow of his former self due to the toll of a disastrous winter and health issues like enteritis, Merckx, still revered as a cycling icon, participated in the race.
How many times Eddy Merckx won the Tour de France?
Eddy Merckx won the Tour de France a total of five times. He achieved this remarkable feat in 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, and 1974. Merckx’s dominance in the Tour de France during the late 1960s and early 1970s solidified his status as one of the greatest cyclists in the history of the sport.
How many times Eddy Merckx won the Giro D’Italia?
Eddy Merckx won the Giro d’Italia five times. He achieved victory in this prestigious Italian cycling race in 1968, 1970, 1972, 1973, and 1974. Merckx’s triumphs in the Giro d’Italia further solidified his status as one of the greatest cyclists in history.
His first win in 1968 marked the emergence of his talent in the professional cycling scene. In 1970, Merckx’s second triumph demonstrated his consistent excellence across different races. Two years later, in 1972, he secured his third victory, showcasing his strategic prowess and exceptional riding skills. The 1973 Giro d’Italia saw Merckx claim his fourth win, further solidifying his status as one of cycling’s greatest champions. Finally, in 1974, Merckx celebrated his fifth and final victory in the race, a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport.
Eddy Merckx’s Net Worth (2024)
Eddy Merckx’s net worth is estimated to be $20 million as of 2024. He earned this substantial sum through his highly successful cycling career. Merckx’s exceptional endurance and determination have cemented his status as one of the greatest cyclists of all time, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of sports. His net worth reflects the significant impact he has made both within cycling and beyond.