Greg LeMond

Greg LeMond is an American former professional road cyclist best known for winning the Tour de France three times and the UCI Road World Championship twice.

Greg LeMond is an American former professional road cyclist best known for winning the Tour de France three times and the UCI Road World Championship twice. He was the first American and first non-European to win the Tour de France, and he later became an entrepreneur and anti-doping advocate. LeMond’s victories helped shape North American cycling interest, including in Canada, where the Tour de France and world championship performances are closely followed by cycling fans.

Early life and amateur career

Greg LeMond was born in 1961 in Lakewood, California. He emerged as a promising rider before turning professional in 1981 and quickly established himself among the leading American cyclists.

Professional success

LeMond won the Tour de France three times and twice won the World Road Race Championship. His 1986 Tour victory made him the first non-European rider to win the event, and his 1989 win came after a dramatic comeback.

1987 hunting accident and comeback

LeMond was accidentally shot while hunting in 1987 and suffered severe injuries. He recovered and returned to compete at the highest level, adding another Tour de France title in 1990.

Later career and business ventures

After retiring in 1994, LeMond was inducted into the United States Bicycling Hall of Fame in 1996. He later helped found LeMond Fitness, Inc. in 2002, which develops exercise bikes and trainers.

Legacy

LeMond is widely regarded as one of the most influential American cyclists. His achievements helped raise the profile of cycling in the United States and made him a prominent figure in anti-doping discussions.