Ecuadorian · Riobamba, Ecuador · Born 18 April 1993Ecuadorian professional cyclist who became the first rider from Ecuador to win a Grand Tour, claiming the 2019 Giro d'Italia and Olympic gold in 2021.
Born in El Carmelo, Carchi Province, Ecuador, on May 29, 1993, Richard Antonio Carapaz Montenegro grew up in the mountainous northern region of his country. His early exposure to high-altitude terrain and cycling culture in Ecuador naturally developed his climbing abilities. Carapaz began his professional career with amateur teams before joining the Movistar Team's development program, which provided him the platform to compete in European racing. Carapaz's breakthrough came during his tenure with Movistar Team, where he established himself as one of cycling's premier climbers. His aggressive racing style and tactical intelligence became evident in stage races across Europe. The Ecuadorian demonstrated consistent performance in mountainous terrain, earning recognition as a legitimate Grand Tour contender. His ability to attack on steep gradients and maintain pace at high altitude distinguished him from his peers. The defining moment of Carapaz's career occurred at the 2019 Giro d'Italia, where he became the first Ecuadorian to win a Grand Tour. His victory included a memorable stage win at the Madonna di Campiglio and demonstrated exceptional tactical awareness throughout the three-week race. This historic achievement was followed by Olympic gold in the men's road race at the Tokyo 2020 Games, making him the first Ecuadorian Olympic cycling champion. These victories established him among the sport's elite climbers. Carapaz's achievements represent a watershed moment for South American cycling, particularly for Ecuador, a nation with limited cycling infrastructure compared to traditional powerhouses. His success has inspired a new generation of Ecuadorian cyclists and elevated the country's profile in international cycling. As a rider for EF Education-EasyPost, he continues competing at the highest level of professional cycling, having proven that talent from non-traditional cycling nations can achieve success in Europe's most prestigious races. His victories remain among the most significant accomplishments in Latin American cycling history.
He became the first Ecuadorian cyclist to win a Grand Tour when he captured the 2019 Giro d'Italia.
How They Played
Carapaz is a pure climber who excels in high mountains and stage races requiring sustained efforts over multiple weeks. His lightweight build and exceptional power-to-weight ratio make him particularly dangerous on steep gradients and long climbs. He combines tactical intelligence with the ability to time his attacks perfectly in the final kilometers of mountain stages.
Lasting Impact
Carapaz opened the door for South American cycling and inspired a new generation of riders from Ecuador and the broader region.
Career Honours
- Giro d'Italia 2019
- Olympic Gold Medal Road Race Tokyo 2020
- Vuelta a España Stage Winner 2020
- Tour de France Stage Winner 2021
- Giro d'Italia Stage Winner 2019
- Tour de Romandie 2022
- Criterium du Dauphiné Stage Winner 2022
- Vuelta al País Vasco 2023
- Tour de Suisse Stage Winner 2021
- Giro d'Italia Stage Winner 2022
- Copa América de Ciclismo (PanAmerican Road Championship) 2019
Ecuadorian Athletes