Description:
(Belgian Former Professional Road and Track Bicycle Racer)
Eddy Merckx is a former professional bicycle racer from Belgium. A sports enthusiast from childhood, he began cycling from a very early age. Eddy Merckx began amateur bicycle racing at the age of 16 years and turned professional at the age of 20. During his cycling career, he earned the nickname’ The Cannibal’ owing to his insatiable appetite for match victories. He won almost every race he participated in during his career that spanned across 13 seasons. Post retirement, his passion for cycling motivated him to start his own bicycle brand chain by the name ‘Eddy Merckx Cycles’. This Belgian cycle brand is considered one of the most prestigious brands in the world. Eddy Merckx has also coached various professional cycling teams after his retirement. He was instrumental in organizing bicycle races like the Tour of Oman and the Tour of Qatar. Eddy Merckx is a co-owner of these bicycle stage races.
Birthday
June 17, 1945 (Gemini)
Alternative names
Édouard Louis Joseph Merckx
Height
183 cm
Spouse/Ex-
Claudine Acou
Parents
Jules Merckx
Jenny Merckx
Children
Axel Merckx, Sabrina Merckx
What are some of Eddy Merckx's most notable wins?
Eddy Merckx won the Tour de France five times (1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1974) and the Giro d'Italia five times (1968, 1970, 1972, 1973, 1974), among numerous other victories.
How did Eddy Merckx earn the nickname "The Cannibal?"
Eddy Merckx earned the nickname "The Cannibal" due to his insatiable appetite for victory and his dominant performances in cycling races, where he often displayed ruthless competitiveness.
What is Eddy Merckx's record for the most Grand Tour victories in a single season?
Eddy Merckx holds the record for the most Grand Tour victories in a single season, winning all three Grand Tours (Tour de France, Giro d'Italia, Vuelta a España) in 1973.
What is the significance of Eddy Merckx's Hour Record in cycling?
Eddy Merckx's Hour Record, set in 1972, is a prestigious achievement in cycling where he covered the farthest distance in one hour on a velodrome, showcasing his incredible endurance and power.
How did Eddy Merckx influence the sport of cycling beyond his racing career?
Eddy Merckx's influence on cycling extends beyond his racing career through his successful bicycle manufacturing company, which produces high-quality bikes for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
