Eritrea’s Biniam Girmay etched his name into cycling history on Monday by becoming the first Black African rider to win a stage at the prestigious Tour de France. Girmay’s triumph came after a fiercely contested sprint at the end of the third stage, showcasing his exceptional talent and tenacity.
Already celebrated for being the first Black African to win a grand tour stage at the 2022 Giro d’Italia, Girmay timed his sprint to perfection. He edged out Colombian rider Fernando Gaviria and Belgian Arnaud de Lie, who finished second and third respectively. His victory is a significant milestone, not just for himself but for the entire African continent in the world of professional cycling.
The day also saw Ecuador’s Richard Carapaz seize the overall lead, making him the first rider from his country to don the coveted yellow jersey. Carapaz overtook Tadej Pogacar in the standings, capitalizing on added places without time differences.
The stage was not without drama. Belgian favorite Jasper Philipsen was involved in a massive crash with just 2.3 kilometers remaining. Despite the chaos, top contenders Pogacar and defending champion Jonas Vingegaard remained unscathed. Carapaz battled his way to the front of the peloton to secure his leading position.
In the tense final moments, Girmay navigated close to the safety barriers but maintained his composure to deliver a stunning win for his Intermarché-Wanty team—their first ever in the Tour. Reflecting on his achievement, an emotional Girmay said, “To be part of the Tour de France is already incredible. I was dreaming of taking part and now I can’t control my emotions. With my first Tour last year, I acquired experience and I manage everything better. Winning today is unbelievable.”
His victory is all the more poignant considering his earlier misfortune at the 2022 Giro d’Italia, where he had to withdraw after a celebratory Prosecco cork struck his eye on the podium. This time, with no champagne in sight, Girmay avoided any such mishaps.
Girmay’s groundbreaking win marks a watershed moment for cycling’s most esteemed race. Before him, only two other African riders—both white South Africans, Robbie Hunter and Daryl Impey—had secured stage victories in the Tour de France. Girmay’s success not only elevates his own career but also shines a spotlight on the growing talent emerging from Africa.
As the Tour progresses, fans around the world will be watching to see how this historic achievement influences the dynamics of professional cycling and inspires a new generation of athletes from diverse backgrounds.
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Girmay becomes first black African to win a Tour de France stage
cgtn.com
