Raymond Poulidor

Raymond Poulidor, the legendary French professional cyclist, was born on April 15, 1936, in Masbaraud-Mérignat, a town in the Limousin region of France. Poulidor became one of the most beloved figures in cycling, known for his consistent performances and his remarkable tendency to finish as the runner-up in many competitions, earning him the affectionate nickname 'The Eternal Second.' Despite never winning the Tour de France, Poulidor's charm and determination made him a favorite among fans. He grew up in a rural farming family and began his professional cycling career in the late 1950s.

In 1961, Raymond Poulidor won the Critérium National, marking his first major victory as a professional cyclist. This win was significant as it helped to establish Poulidor as a formidable competitor on the French and international cycling scene. The Critérium National, a celebrated race, was seen as a key indicator of prowess in the lead-up to the Tour de France. Poulidor's victory heralded the beginning of a career that would see him consistently performing at a high level against some of the very best in the sport.

One of the most memorable moments in Raymond Poulidor's career came in the 1964 Tour de France during the mountain stage up the Puy de Dôme on July 14. Poulidor engaged in an iconic duel with his great rival Jacques Anquetil. Both cyclists rode wheel-to-wheel, with Poulidor eventually gaining time on Anquetil, though Anquetil would ultimately win the Tour. This moment is etched in Tour history, symbolizing the fierce yet respectful rivalry between the two and Poulidor's relentless quest for victory in one of the most prestigious events in cycling.

Raymond Poulidor achieved his second second-place finish in the Tour de France on July 24, 1966. The Tour de France, being the most prestigious cycling race in the world, had eluded Poulidor's victory desires, but his second place was a testament to his tenacity and skill. This second-place finish became a recurring theme in his career, solidifying his image as 'The Eternal Second.' Despite the lack of a yellow jersey victory, Raymond's popularity soared among fans who admired his perseverance and sportsmanship.

Raymond Poulidor secured a major victory by winning the Vuelta a España in 1973. This was particularly significant as it marked Poulidor's first and only win in a Grand Tour. Throughout the three-week race, Poulidor demonstrated exceptional endurance and strategic prowess, successfully overcoming a competitive field of cyclists. The Vuelta win was a crowning achievement in Poulidor’s career, adding to his legacy and bringing him a prominent victory that had proved elusive in the Tour de France.

Raymond Poulidor officially retired from professional cycling on October 15, 1981. By the time of his retirement, Poulidor had established himself as a beloved figure in the sport, known both for his impressive physical talents and for his sportsmanship and persistence. Although he never won the Tour de France, his numerous podium finishes and victories, including the Vuelta a España, carriage great respect from fans and competitors alike. Retirement allowed him to focus on other endeavors, including working as a public relations ambassador for cycling events.

Raymond Poulidor, the legendary French cyclist affectionately known as 'The Eternal Second,' passed away on November 13, 2019, at the age of 83. Throughout his storied career, Poulidor encapsulated the spirit of sportsmanship and persistence, often finishing in second place but earning a place in the hearts of cycling fans worldwide. His passing was a significant moment in the world of cycling, with tributes pouring in from across the globe, celebrating a life that inspired countless athletes and fans. His legacy endures through the memories of his historic races and the lives he touched along the way.