Miguel Indurain: Cycling
Miguel Indurain Larraya (born 16 July 1964) is retired Spanish cyclist known for being one of the dominant riders in the 90s, winning seven victories in the Grand Tours. He began cycling when he became a member of the “Club Ciclista Villaves” in Navarre. Indurain became a cadet cyclist and joined amateur competitions then later at the Olympics where he won then retired the same year.
Greatest Sporting Achievements
Miguel Indurain was the fourth man to win five consecutive Tours de France from 1991 to 1995. The Spanish cyclist also won Giro d’Italia twice becoming one of the only seven riders in history to achieve the Giro-Tour double in the same season. He won gold at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. He also competed at the World Championships earning between 1991 and 1995 earning him one gold, two silver and one bronze. Indurain became the race leader, wearing a yellow jersey in the Tour de France for 60 days.
Why Was He So Good?
Miguel Indurain’s strength was as a time trialist. His amazing exploit made him one of Spain’s best athletes. Indurain’s indomitable skills, respect and humility that he showed for both his opponents and supporters made him one of the most admired cyclists of all time.
“I don’t want to change. I like the way I am and I’m satisfied with my life, but I’ve never left a superior to anyone.”
What You May Not Know
- He became the youngest rider ever to win the Spanish amateur national road championship at 18 and the youngest rider to lead the Vuelta a Espana at 20.
- Ever since Lance Armstrong’s seven wins were revoked, he now holds the record for the most consecutive Tour de France wins.
- Miguel was nicknamed “Big Mig” or “Miguelon” for his ability and physical size – 6 ft 2 in, 176 lbs.
- His decorations include Prince of Asturias Award for Sports, Grand Cross of the Royal Order of Sporting Merit, and Cross of the Order of Civil Merit, French Legion of Honour and Olympic Order.
- His brother Prudencio is also a professional cyclist.
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Related Pages
- More Cycling athletes
- About Cycling
- Athlete Database home
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