Bernard Hinault, born on November 14, 1954, in Yffiniac, France, is a retired French professional cyclist and one of the most successful cyclists in the history of the sport. Often referred to as “The Badger” due to his aggressive riding style and fierce competitiveness, Hinault had a career marked by impressive achievements and memorable moments.
Career Achievements: Hinault won five editions of the Tour de France (1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, and 1985), a feat matched only by Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, and Miguel Indurain. His success extends beyond the Tour de France, as he also won the Giro d’Italia three times (1980, 1982, and 1985) and the Vuelta a España twice (1978, 1983). This makes him one of the few cyclists to have achieved a career Grand Tour Triple Crown.
Classics and Other Races: Hinault was not only a Grand Tour specialist. He also won several prestigious one-day races, including the Paris-Roubaix in 1981 and Liège-Bastogne-Liège in 1977 and 1980. He achieved victories in other classic races and was known for his versatility and strength across various types of races.
Rivalries and Team Dynamics: Hinault’s career included notable rivalries, most famously with his teammate and eventual successor Greg LeMond. The dynamics between Hinault and LeMond during the 1986 Tour de France are legendary, with Hinault promising to support LeMond but appearing to challenge him during the race. This rivalry remains a significant storyline in cycling history.
Post-Retirement: After retiring from professional cycling in 1986, Hinault remained involved in the sport in various capacities. He worked as a race ambassador and official for the Tour de France, often seen on the podium presenting jerseys and trophies to the winners. His post-retirement career also included commentary and public appearances related to cycling events.
Height and Weight
Bernard Hinault’s height is approximately 1.74 meters (5 feet 81⁄2 inches), and his racing weight during his professional career was typically around 65 kilograms (143 pounds).
How many times Bernard Hinault won the Tour de France?
Bernard Hinault won the Tour de France five times, in 1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, and 1985. This achievement places him among the elite cyclists who have accomplished this feat, alongside Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, and Miguel Indurain.
How many times Bernard Hinault won the Giro D’Italia?
Bernard Hinault won the Giro d’Italia three times. He achieved victories in 1980, 1982, and 1985, showcasing his versatility and strength across different Grand Tours.
Bernard Hinault’s Net Worth
There is no widely accepted or reliable source that provides an exact net worth for Bernard Hinault. Net worth estimates for retired athletes can vary widely depending on several factors such as endorsement deals, investments, business ventures, and involvement in sports-related activities after retirement.