Mark Cavendish has etched his name into cycling history by securing his 35th Tour de France stage victory, surpassing the long-standing record held by Eddy Merckx. The 39-year-old British cyclist achieved this remarkable feat during the fifth stage of the race, in what many anticipate to be his final appearance at cycling’s premier event.
Cavendish, hailing from the Isle of Man, demonstrated his enduring prowess by launching a decisive sprint approximately 100 meters from the finish line, leaving his competitors in his wake. He crossed the line ahead of Belgian rider Jasper Philipsen, with Norway’s Alexander Kristoff finishing third despite an earlier crash. All three were credited with the same time of four hours, eight minutes, and 46 seconds.
Reflecting on his journey since his first Tour stage win 16 years ago, Cavendish shared his relentless drive for success. “I always needed to win one more, more, more,” he said, joined by his family on the podium. “It takes a lot to get there every year. I’ve got incredible people around me.” He expressed gratitude toward his team, Astana Qazaqstan, adding, “Astana put a big gamble on this year to make sure we’re good at the Tour de France. We’ve done it.”
Cavendish equaled Merckx’s record of 34 wins during the 2021 Tour but faced setbacks last year after a narrow miss for victory and a subsequent crash that led to his withdrawal. Determined to give it another shot, he delayed his retirement plans, a decision that has now culminated in this historic achievement. Merckx, a Belgian legend known as “The Cannibal,” dominated cycling in his era, making Cavendish’s accomplishment all the more significant.
Fellow riders celebrated Cavendish’s milestone, with many offering congratulations at the finish line. His longevity and success in the sport have earned him widespread respect. “I just wanted to get the run-in to do it. I’m a little bit in disbelief,” Cavendish admitted, highlighting the collective effort of his team.
The day’s race was not without its challenges. Two-time Tour champion Tadej Pogacar narrowly avoided a crash, maintaining his position in the main pack and retaining the coveted yellow jersey. “We were in the bunch and then suddenly something came up in the middle from nowhere… I reacted on instinct and was very lucky,” Pogacar recounted.
As the Tour continues, Cavendish’s record-breaking victory stands as a testament to his dedication and passion for cycling. His journey from his first Tour stage win in 2008 to this historic moment inspires both fans and aspiring athletes worldwide.
The Tour de France resumes with its sixth stage, where riders will face new challenges on the road to Paris. For Cavendish, each stage is an opportunity to further cement his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Reference(s):
Cavendish breaks record for most career Tour de France stage wins
cgtn.com
