Egan Bernal

Colombian professional cyclist who became the youngest Tour de France winner in 110 years when he claimed victory in 2019 at age 22.

Born in Bogotá on January 13, 1997, and raised in the mountainous town of Zipaquirá, Egan Arley Bernal Gómez emerged from Colombia's rich cycling tradition. Growing up at high altitude in the Andes, he developed the natural climbing prowess that would define his professional career. His talent became evident during his amateur years, where he dominated junior competitions and caught the attention of European scouts. Bernal's professional breakthrough came after joining Team Sky (later Team Ineos) in 2018. His debut season showcased remarkable versatility, with stage victories at the Tour de l'Avenir and a strong showing at the Tour de France, where he finished 15th overall. The following year proved transformative as he claimed his first Grand Tour victory at the Tour de Suisse, demonstrating his ability to excel in stage racing's most demanding conditions. The 2019 Tour de France marked cycling history when Bernal became the first Colombian to claim the yellow jersey. At 22 years old, he was the youngest Tour winner since Henri Cornet in 1904, a span of 110 years. His victory was secured through dominant performances in the high mountains, particularly during the decisive Alpine stages where his climbing superiority proved unassailable. He added the 2021 Giro d'Italia to his Grand Tour collection, becoming only the seventh rider to win both the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia. Bernal's career faced its greatest challenge in January 2022 when a training accident resulted in life-threatening injuries, including spinal fractures. His successful recovery and return to professional racing represents one of cycling's most remarkable comebacks. Beyond personal achievements, Bernal's success has elevated Colombian cycling's global profile and inspired a new generation of South American riders. His technical climbing ability, combined with tactical maturity beyond his years, established him as one of cycling's premier stage racers and a defining figure in the sport's modern era.

Bernal is renowned as an exceptional climber with remarkable endurance in high mountains and steep gradients. He possesses a smooth, efficient pedaling style and tactical intelligence that allows him to read races well and attack at crucial moments. His ability to maintain high power output at altitude gives him a significant advantage in mountain stages.

Bernal opened doors for a new generation of Colombian cyclists and elevated the country's status as a cycling powerhouse on the world stage.

• Tour de France 2019
• Giro d'Italia 2021
• Tour de Suisse 2019
• Vélo d'Or 2019