Cycling, Girmay: "My life has changed after the victories at the Tour de France"

Rome, 8 November 2024 - When you think of a modern cycling that has greatly expanded its boundaries, the first reference goes to Tadej pogacar, emblem of a Slovenia become in a few years a superpower of this sport. In second place, however, there is Biniam Girmay, symbol of a movement that even goes beyond the usual borders of the usual continents to open up to theAfrica and certainly not just to play a supporting role: just think that with the success of the Ghent-Wevelgem 2022, the Eritrean became the first African runner to win a classical of the calendar World Tour.  

"My life changed after the victories at the Tour de France"

 The growth of the class of 2000 in reality, net of several falls and just as much bad luck (memorable, on the negative side, the plug in the eye during the celebrations for the victory of the stage 10 of the Giro d'Italia 2022 which cost him his retirement and also the following one Tour de France 2022) did not stop and the green jersey won this year at Great Boucle is a clear testimony. "The three victories obtained at the Tour de France they were something unthinkable, but I wouldn't call them the best moments of my life, referring instead to the birth of my daughter. Speaking of sports, however, it was beautiful. I don't know if they are a symbol for theEritrea or for young people but - continue Girmay to the microphones of Brand - I realize how important it is to be an inspiration to people". People to be quantified in an ever-increasing number. "I'm happy with the support I have but, on the other hand, I don't like being with so many people, because cycling requires rest and training. I try to continue my life, but the victories at Tour de France clearly they distort it for you". Who knows, maybe the Eritrean could be the heir of Mark Cavendish. "It is practically impossible to reach his record, but I would like to win more stages at the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France". Finally, a comment on racism and its possible presence in cycling. "Throughout my career, I have always been treated very well in all the places I have been. Cycling is fortunately different from other sports: in Spain or Japan, for example, everyone was cheering for me and it was nice to feel this positive atmosphere".

Lefevere's balance sheet

Meanwhile Patrick Lefebvre, patron of the Soudal Quick Step, has drawn up a balance sheet of the 2024 of his team, third behind only the untouchable UAE Team Emirates e Visma-Lease a Bike in the particular points ranking drawn up by theUCI. "In terms of teams, we were third in the world and we are proud of that. Over the years we have always tried to create a squad that could compete throughout the season and we have shown that we can achieve this goal for several years. For this reason, I congratulate everyone."Read also - ATP Finals 2024, Sinner vs. De Minaur: the guide