Cadel Evans

Australian professional road cyclist who became the first Australian to win the Tour de France, claiming victory in 2011 after years of near-misses.

Born in Katherine, Northern Territory, on February 14, 1977, Cadel Lee Evans spent his formative years in the Northern Territory before his family relocated to South Australia. His athletic journey began with mountain biking, where he demonstrated exceptional talent from an early age. Evans transitioned to road cycling in his early twenties, moving to Europe to pursue professional racing opportunities in the demanding continental circuit. Evans established himself as one of cycling's most consistent Grand Tour performers throughout the 2000s. He finished second in the Tour de France twice, in 2007 and 2008, demonstrating remarkable consistency across the race's varied terrain. His climbing ability improved significantly during his peak years, complementing his already formidable time trialing skills. Evans also achieved notable success in one-day classics and stage races, including victory at the 2009 UCI Road World Championships in Mendrisio, Switzerland, where he became the first Australian to win the rainbow jersey in the elite men's road race. The defining moment of Evans' career came at the 2011 Tour de France, where he became the first Australian to win cycling's most prestigious race. At age 34, he overcame a 57-second deficit entering the final time trial, delivering a masterful performance against the clock to defeat Andy Schleck by 1 minute 34 seconds overall. This victory represented the culmination of years of near-misses and established him as Australia's greatest Grand Tour cyclist. Evans' impact on Australian cycling extends beyond his personal achievements. His Tour de France victory inspired a generation of Australian cyclists and elevated the sport's profile significantly in Australia. Following his retirement from professional cycling in 2015, he remained involved in the sport through various initiatives. His methodical approach to training and racing, combined with his longevity at the highest level, established him as one of the most respected figures in professional cycling.

Evans was known as a strong all-rounder with exceptional climbing ability and solid time trial skills. His strategic racing approach and ability to perform consistently across different terrains made him a formidable Grand Tour contender. He was particularly effective at maintaining steady power output over long climbs and excelled in the mountains.

Evans opened the door for Australian cycling's golden era and inspired a generation of Australian riders to pursue Grand Tour success.

• Tour de France 2011
• UCI World Road Race Championship 2009
• UCI ProTour 2007
• Tour de Romandie 2006
• Tour de Romandie 2009