Bernard Hinault

French professional cyclist known as 'The Badger', one of only seven riders to win all three Grand Tours, dominant force in 1970s-1980s cycling

Born in Yffiniac, Brittany, on November 14, 1954, Bernard Hinault emerged from humble beginnings to become one of cycling's most formidable competitors. Nicknamed "The Badger" for his tenacious racing style and fierce temperament, he began cycling as a teenager and quickly demonstrated exceptional talent. His agricultural background in rural France instilled the work ethic and mental toughness that would define his professional career. Hinault turned professional in 1975 and immediately made his mark on the sport's biggest stages. His breakthrough came with his first Tour de France victory in 1978, establishing him as cycling's new dominant force. Between 1978 and 1986, he claimed five Tour de France titles, making him one of only five riders to achieve this feat. His peak years in the early 1980s saw him systematically conquer cycling's most prestigious races, demonstrating versatility across different terrains and race formats. The Frenchman's achievements extend far beyond the Tour de France. He won the Giro d'Italia three times and claimed the Vuelta a España twice, making him one of only seven riders to win all three Grand Tours. His palmares includes the World Championship, numerous classics, and stage race victories across Europe. Hinault retired in 1986 at age 31, at the peak of his powers, having accumulated 147 professional victories. Hinault's legacy transcends statistics. He was the last French rider to win the Tour de France, a distinction that carries particular weight in cycling's heartland. His aggressive racing philosophy and refusal to yield to opponents earned him respect and fear in equal measure. Known for his tactical acumen and ability to control races, he influenced a generation of cyclists. His role as a race ambassador and mentor to younger riders, including his American teammate Greg LeMond, helped globalize professional cycling during a crucial period in the sport's development.

Hinault was renowned for his aggressive racing style and exceptional versatility, excelling in mountains, time trials, and flat stages alike. His fierce determination and tactical intelligence made him a formidable competitor who could win through pure power or strategic cunning. He was particularly dominant in time trials and possessed the rare ability to perform consistently across all three Grand Tours.

Hinault remains the last cyclist to achieve the rare feat of winning all three Grand Tours, cementing his status as one of cycling's greatest champions. His aggressive racing style and uncompromising approach influenced a generation of cyclists and helped establish the modern era of professional cycling.

• Tour de France 5x
• Italia 3x
• Vuelta a España 2x
• World Champion 1980