Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Greg LeMond

Discover the career path of Greg LeMond, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Greg LeMond is a retired American road racing cyclist, renowned for his exceptional achievements. He distinguished himself by winning the Tour de France three times, a feat unmatched by any other American male cyclist. Further solidifying his legacy, LeMond also secured the Road Race World Championship twice. His career marked a significant period for American cycling on the international stage, and he remains a prominent figure in the sport's history.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

1977: Second in Tour of Fresno

In 1977, at age 15, LeMond finished second in the Tour of Fresno to John Howard.

1978: Represented US at Junior World Championships

In 1978, LeMond represented the United States at the Junior World Championships in Washington, D.C., finishing ninth in the road race.

1979: Won Gold, Silver and Bronze at Junior World Championships

In 1979, LeMond won gold, silver and bronze medals at the Junior World Championships in Argentina, with his victory in the road race as the highlight.

1980: Selected for U.S. Olympic Cycling Team

In 1980, at age 18, LeMond was selected for the 1980 U.S. Olympic cycling team, but the U.S. boycott prevented him from competing in Moscow.

1980: Joined U.S. National Cycling Team for European Campaign

In the spring of 1980, Greg LeMond joined the U.S. National cycling team for a six-week European racing campaign.

1981: Signed with Renault

Greg Lemond signed with Renault in Paris on the day the 1980 Tour de France finished.

1981: First Professional Victory and Other Wins

In 1981, Greg LeMond achieved his first professional victory at the French Tour de l'Oise and also won the Coors Classic in the United States and placed third in the Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré stage race. He won a total of five races in his rookie season of 1981.

1981: Started Professional Cycling Career

In 1981, Greg LeMond began his professional cycling career.

September 20, 1982: Won Tour de l'Avenir

On September 20, 1982, Greg LeMond won the Tour de l'Avenir by a record 10 minutes, 18 seconds.

1983: Won Road World Championship

In 1983, Greg LeMond won the Road World Championship in Altenrhein, Switzerland, becoming the first American male cyclist to do so.

1984: Finished Third in Tour de France

In 1984, Greg LeMond rode his first Tour de France, finishing third and winning the white jersey of the young rider classification.

1985: Rode in Support of Bernard Hinault

In 1985, Greg LeMond rode for La Vie Claire in support of team captain Bernard Hinault, finishing second overall after being ordered not to challenge Hinault.

1986: Co-leader of La Vie Claire

In 1986, Greg LeMond was a co-leader of the La Vie Claire team alongside Bernard Hinault for the Tour de France.

1986: Won First Tour de France, Felt Betrayed

In 1986, Greg LeMond won his first Tour de France, but felt betrayed by Bernard Hinault and the La Vie Claire team leadership due to aggressive attacks and divisions within the team.