Five-time Tour de France champion Bernard Hinault has offered a stark assessment of France’s prospects in cycling’s most prestigious event. In a candid interview with L’Équipe, the semi-official newspaper for the Tour, Hinault expressed skepticism about the likelihood of a French cyclist winning the Tour de France in the near future. The last French victory came in 1985 when Hinault himself triumphed despite significant challenges.
Hinault’s comments come as the nation approaches a 40-year drought without a homegrown champion. He reflected on his own experiences, including his affinity with current favorite Tadej Pogačar, and explained why he never prioritized equaling the record of five Tour wins, which he shares with legends like Miguel Indurain, Jacques Anquetil, and Eddy Merckx. “That was never my priority,” Hinault stated, emphasizing his focus on enjoying the race rather than viewing it as work.
Challenges for French Cyclists
Hinault did not mince words regarding the current state of French cycling. He criticized the nation’s riders for failing to meet the demands of the Tour since his last victory. “I would happily not have this record,” he remarked, referring to being the last French winner. He added, “French riders had always won the race at regular intervals up till then. It’s a terrible observation to make, but it’s one you can’t avoid. There are no grand champions in France who are capable of winning the Tour.”
Hinault’s analogy of French cyclists lacking the “big, 1000cc motorbike” needed to win highlights his belief that they are not equipped to compete at the highest level. Despite their efforts, he argued, they have not achieved the necessary results. “They have no chance of winning the Tour,” he concluded.
Historical Context and International Competition
The French struggle in the Tour de France is not solely due to domestic issues. Hinault pointed to the “mondialisation” of cycling in the 1980s and 1990s, which saw nations like Colombia, the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom elevate their performance levels. This international competition reduced opportunities for traditional cycling powerhouses like France.
Hinault noted that this shift led to a loss of confidence among French cyclists, who have since struggled to see themselves as potential winners. The near-miss by Laurent Fignon in 1989, when he lost to Greg LeMond by just eight seconds, marked a turning point. “We’ve passed on the torch to others,” Hinault lamented.
Criticism and Motivation
Hinault’s critique extends to the mindset of French cyclists. He praised riders like Julian Alaphilippe for prioritizing other objectives, such as the World Championships, over a top-ten finish in the Tour, which he deemed forgettable. “It’s too easy to hide behind an [inferiority] complex,” he said, urging French cyclists to aim higher.
He also dismissed the notion that French cycling’s struggles are due to differing standards regarding banned substances. “It’s way too easy to hide behind that excuse,” Hinault asserted, insisting that all cyclists faced similar risks.
Hinault’s criticisms are not meant to discourage but to motivate. He believes that complaints from French riders about his comments reveal a weakness. “My criticisms should have made them feel more motivated, make them want to show me I was wrong,” he stated.
Future Prospects
Despite his bleak assessment, Hinault sees potential in young talent like Paul Seixas, an 18-year-old who finished in the top ten of the Critérium du Dauphiné. Hinault advised patience, suggesting that Seixas focus on development and perhaps target the Tour de l’Avenir before setting sights on the Tour de France.
“It’s already great that he’s done the Dauphiné this year, and I don’t see why he can’t do the Tour next year,” Hinault said, noting that Seixas will have much to learn at just 19 years old.
Looking Ahead
The Tour de France remains the pinnacle of cycling, and the quest for a French champion continues. As the nation grapples with its long-standing drought, the insights of legends like Bernard Hinault offer both a sobering reality check and a call to action for the next generation of French cyclists.
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