Fabian Cancellara

On July 8, 2006, Fabian Cancellara showcased his individual prowess by winning the prologue of the Tour de France in Strasbourg. This victory marked Cancellara's debut in the prestigious yellow jersey as the overall race leader in the Tour de France. Known for his time trial capabilities, Cancellara completed the 7.1 km course with a stunning time, earning him the coveted maillot jaune (yellow jersey) and setting the tone for an illustrious career that would see him earning multiple victories and accolades.

On April 6, 2008, Fabian Cancellara achieved one of the most significant victories in his cycling career by winning the Tour of Flanders. The race is one of the most prestigious cycling classics held in the Flanders region of Belgium. Cancellara's victory was marked by his solo attack with about 15 kilometers remaining in the race, showcasing his incredible time-trialing skills and sheer power to distance his rivals. His win in the 2008 edition of the Ronde van Vlaanderen (Tour of Flanders) solidified his reputation as a formidable classics specialist.

On September 27, 2008, Fabian Cancellara won the UCI Road World Championships Individual Time Trial for the third time in his career, having previously won in 2006 and 2007. The championship, held in Varese, Italy, saw Cancellara deliver a dominant performance, completing the 43.7 km course with a time significantly faster than his competitors. His exceptional skills against the clock earned him the title once again, reaffirming his status as one of the best time trialists of all time.

On July 13, 2009, during the Tour de France, Fabian Cancellara demonstrated his excellent form and strategic prowess by retaking the yellow jersey after Stage 3. Known for his time-trial strength, Cancellara held onto the general classification lead early in the race following a powerful prologue win. Though primarily considered a classics rider, his leadership in the Tour de France underscored his versatility. Cancellara's time in yellow during the 2009 Tour, particularly after the rugged third stage, remains one of the highlights of his career.

On April 11, 2010, Fabian Cancellara cemented his legend in the cycling world with a spectacular victory at Paris-Roubaix, one of the most challenging and prestigious one-day races. Known as the 'Hell of the North' due to its treacherous cobblestone sections, Paris-Roubaix demands exceptional bike-handling skills and endurance. Cancellara, nicknamed 'Spartacus', launched a decisive attack and rode solo to the finish, crossing the line over two minutes ahead of his nearest competitor, Thor Hushovd.

On March 31, 2012, during the Tour of Flanders, a pivotal classic in the cycling calendar, Fabian Cancellara suffered a major setback when he crashed and fractured his collarbone. The injury occurred in the closing stages of the race, severely affecting his Spring Classics campaign that year. Known for his prowess in one-day races, Cancellara's hopes for victories in the upcoming races were dashed as he required surgery and recovery time, marking a significant low point in his otherwise illustrious career.

On March 31, 2013, Fabian Cancellara showed his tenacity and exceptional racing form by winning the Tour of Flanders for the second time. This victory was particularly significant as it came after his recovery from a fractured collarbone the previous year. Cancellara's tactical acumen was on display as he attacked on the final climb of the Oude Kwaremont, distancing his rivals and powering ahead to claim victory. His win added another prestigious classic to his palmarès as he further cemented his legendary status in cycling.

On April 13, 2014, Fabian Cancellara claimed his third victory in the iconic Paris-Roubaix, once again proving his dominance in the cobblestone classics. Cancellara's win came after a tactical and grueling race in which he used his experience to outmaneuver his competitors in the final sprint at the Roubaix Velodrome, one of the most historic finishes in cycling. This triumph marked his seventh win in a 'Monument' classic, a testament to his enduring legacy and skill on the toughest one-day races.

On March 14, 2016, Fabian Cancellara, one of the most successful and popular professional cyclists, announced his plan to retire at the end of the 2016 season. Cancellara, known for his prowess in time trials and one-day classic races, stated his desire to conclude his career on a high note. With numerous victories, including multiple Tour de France stage wins, World Championship titles, and Classic 'Monument' races, Cancellara intended to focus on personal pursuits after retirement.

On August 10, 2016, at the Rio Olympics, Fabian Cancellara delivered a performance for the ages by winning the gold medal in the men's cycling individual time trial event. This victory was a fitting culmination to his illustrious career, showcasing his unparalleled ability in time trials. Cancellara completed the 54.6 km course in 1 hour and 12 minutes, beating his closest rivals, including silver medalist Tom Dumoulin. The win added an Olympic gold to his already impressive list of accolades.