Biniam Girmay

In February 2021, Biniam Girmay made headlines by taking a podium finish at the Tropicale Amissa Bongo, also known as the Tour du Gabon. As one of the few prestigious cycling races on the African continent, Girmay's performance captured attention as he competed fiercely against an international field of riders. The race served as an important step in his journey to becoming a professional cyclist and demonstrated his potential to compete and succeed at higher levels. His result helped increase visibility for African cyclists and showcased the growing talent emerging from the continent.

On March 28, 2021, Biniam Girmay achieved an impressive second-place finish in Gent-Wevelgem, becoming the first African rider to podium in this prestigious WorldTour race. At 20 years old, Girmay showcased his formidable sprinting abilities against a field of seasoned competitors, cementing his status as one of the cycling's upcoming stars. Despite facing strong contenders from top teams, Girmay's tactical acumen and sprinting prowess were on full display, earning him accolades and highlighting his potential in the European cycling circuit. This performance was a significant breakthrough in his young career.

In April 2021, Biniam Girmay made a significant impact on the international cycling scene by finishing in the top 10 overall at the Presidential Cycling Tour of Turkey. Over the course of multiple stages, Girmay demonstrated remarkable consistency and skill, holding his own against a competitive field of riders. His performance was widely praised and highlighted his potential to succeed in European races. Girmay's success in Turkey was a key moment in his career, further establishing him as a talent to watch and a pioneer for African cyclists on the world stage.

Biniam Girmay achieved his first professional victory at the Classic Grand Besançon Doubs on August 27, 2021. This marked a significant milestone in his career as he navigated a challenging course against seasoned European teams to take the top spot. Girmay's win was not only a personal triumph but also a historic one, as he became the first black African rider to win the event. Completing the race with remarkable endurance and sprinting ability, Girmay's performance underscored his growing talent and ambition within the professional cycling circuit, setting the stage for his future successes.

Biniam Girmay made history once again in September 2021 by becoming the first black African cyclist to win a medal at the UCI Road World Championships. Competing in the Men’s Under-23 road race in Flanders, Belgium, Girmay powered his way to a silver medal after an impressive performance. His tenacity and strategic racing put him on the podium alongside some of the world’s best young riders, underlining his rising status in the sport and his potential to reach even greater heights in the future. Girmay's accomplishment was widely celebrated and brought significant attention to the growing presence of African athletes in international cycling.

In a significant career move, Biniam Girmay signed with the UCI WorldTeam Intermarché-Wanty-Gobert in October 2021. The announcement marked Girmay's transition to a top-tier professional cycling team, setting the stage for his participation in major European races and contributing to his development as an elite cyclist. The team's decision to bring Girmay on board was based on his tremendous potential and impressive performances in various under-23 competitions, including the silver medal at the U23 World Championships. By joining Intermarché-Wanty-Gobert, Girmay gained the resources and support necessary to further hone his skills and compete with the best in the sport.

Biniam Girmay secured his first major win of the 2022 season at the Trofeo Alcudía, part of the Challenge Mallorca series, on March 6. The race featured a challenging route with several climbs and a competitive field of riders. Girmay's victory was marked by strategic riding and a powerful finish. This win was pivotal in boosting his confidence and setting the tone for his successful 2022 campaign. As the first black African to achieve such a win in the race series, Girmay continues to pave the way for increased diversity in cycling and inspire the next generation of African cyclists.

On April 7, 2022, Biniam Girmay clinched victory in Stage 6 of the Presidential Cycling Tour of Turkey, further establishing himself as a formidable presence in the cycling world. This success was part of a breakout year for the young Eritrean cyclist, who had already shown his capability in previous races. The win in Turkey, characterized by his strategic sprint and strong finish, served as yet another testament to Girmay's growing prowess and ambition in the sport. His performances continue to inspire many and showcase the potential for greater diversity in competitive cycling at the international level.

Biniam Girmay made history by becoming the first black African rider to win a stage at the Giro d'Italia, one of the most prestigious grand tours in cycling. On May 17, 2022, Girmay sprinted to victory in Stage 10, a 196-kilometer route from Pescara to Jesi, overtaking some of the top sprinters in the world to claim the victory. His remarkable win was celebrated as a significant moment in the sport, highlighting both his talent and the increasing diversity in professional cycling. This victory marked a milestone for African cyclists, as Girmay demonstrated his potential to compete at the highest level of this demanding sport.

Biniam Girmay made his debut at the Vuelta a España in 2022, one of cycling's grand tours, which took place from August 19 to September 11. While he showed promise and resilience throughout the race, competing bravely against some of the top riders in the world, his participation itself was notable as it reflected the significant strides he and other African cyclists are making in the sport. Girmay's involvement highlighted the growing presence and potential of African cyclists in the European-dominated discipline, marking an important moment in his career as he continued to break ground for future riders from the continent.