“It Was Talked About Because It Didn’t Seem Possible”: Mark Cavendish Reflects on Breaking Eddy Merckx’s Tour de France Stage Win Record
Mark Cavendish, one of cycling’s most celebrated sprinters, etched his name in the annals of sports history when he broke Eddy Merckx’s long-standing record for the most Tour de France stage wins. For decades, Merckx’s record of 34 stage victories seemed untouchable, an insurmountable feat in a sport where legends are born, and records are set to challenge future generations. Cavendish, with his relentless determination and unyielding spirit, proved that the impossible could indeed become possible.
The Legacy of Eddy Merckx
Eddy Merckx, often dubbed “The Cannibal” for his voracious appetite for victories, dominated professional cycling in the 1960s and 70s. His 34 Tour de France stage wins, amassed between 1969 and 1975, stood as a benchmark of excellence. Merckx was not just a prolific winner but a versatile cyclist who excelled in all terrains, from punishing mountain stages to explosive sprints. His record was a testament to his all-around capabilities, making it seem unlikely that any rider, let alone a sprinter, could ever surpass it.
For years, Merckx’s record was revered, with each new generation of cyclists viewing it as an almost mythical achievement. Many sprinters came close, but the idea of surpassing Merckx seemed beyond reach. This is why, when Mark Cavendish began inching closer to the record, it wasn’t just the cycling community that took notice—the entire sporting world watched in anticipation.
The Rise of Mark Cavendish
Mark Cavendish’s journey to cycling greatness was one of grit, determination, and an innate talent for sprinting. Born on the Isle of Man in 1985, Cavendish quickly rose through the ranks of professional cycling, earning the nickname “The Manx Missile” for his blistering speed and ability to finish with an explosive burst. His first Tour de France stage win came in 2008, and from there, he became a regular fixture on the podiums of the world’s most prestigious races.
Cavendish’s sprinting prowess was unmatched, and his tactical acumen in the chaotic final kilometers of a stage was his hallmark. He became a master at positioning himself in the peloton, reading the race, and timing his sprint to perfection. This ability to consistently deliver under pressure allowed him to accumulate stage wins at an astonishing rate.
Despite his success, Cavendish faced numerous challenges throughout his career, including injuries, illnesses, and the inevitable dips in form that afflict even the greatest athletes. But Cavendish’s resilience was his defining trait. He weathered the storms and continued to chase victories with an unwavering belief in his abilities.
The Record-Breaking Moment
The 2021 Tour de France marked a significant chapter in Cavendish’s career. After several years plagued by setbacks, including a battle with the Epstein-Barr virus and a period of self-doubt, Cavendish made a triumphant return to the Tour. Many had written him off, believing his best years were behind him. Yet, with the support of his team, Deceuninck-QuickStep, and his renewed sense of purpose, Cavendish embarked on a campaign that would see him make history.
Stage after stage, Cavendish powered to victory, each win bringing him closer to Merckx’s record. The cycling world watched in awe as the Manxman defied the odds, showing the tenacity that had defined his career. On July 9, 2021, during Stage 13 of the Tour, Cavendish sprinted to his 34th stage win, equalling Merckx’s record. It was a moment of jubilation, not just for Cavendish but for fans who had followed his career and admired his perseverance.
But Cavendish wasn’t done yet. Just days later, on July 16, during Stage 19, he crossed the finish line first, claiming his 35th Tour de France stage win and officially breaking Merckx’s record. The reaction was one of disbelief and elation. The record, which had seemed untouchable for so long, had been surpassed by a rider who had faced more than his share of adversity.
Cavendish’s Reflection
In the aftermath of his record-breaking achievement, Cavendish was reflective. “It was talked about because it didn’t seem possible,” he said, acknowledging the weight of what he had accomplished. Cavendish knew that breaking Merckx’s record was more than just another win—it was a statement of his resilience, a testament to his career, and a defining moment in cycling history.
Cavendish expressed deep respect for Merckx, whose record had stood for so long as a symbol of excellence. “Eddy Merckx is the greatest cyclist of all time,” Cavendish remarked. “To even be mentioned in the same breath as him is an honor.” Cavendish’s humility in the face of his achievement was striking, as he recognized the magnitude of what he had done while paying homage to the legend whose record he had broken.
He also reflected on the journey that had brought him to this point, acknowledging the support of his family, teammates, and fans. “I couldn’t have done this without the people who believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself,” he said. Cavendish’s journey was one of perseverance, and he credited those around him for helping him reach the pinnacle of his sport.
The Legacy of Mark Cavendish
With his record-breaking 35th stage win, Cavendish solidified his place among the greatest cyclists of all time. His achievements went beyond the sheer number of victories; they were a testament to his fighting spirit, his ability to overcome adversity, and his unrelenting pursuit of greatness.
Cavendish’s legacy is one that will inspire future generations of cyclists. His story is a reminder that records are not just numbers—they are milestones that challenge us to push the limits of what is possible. For Cavendish, breaking Merckx’s record was not just about winning; it was about proving that even the most daunting challenges can be overcome with determination, hard work, and belief.
As the cycling world continues to evolve, Mark Cavendish’s name will forever be synonymous with the Tour de France. His record of 35 stage wins stands as a beacon of what can be achieved through perseverance. And while records are meant to be broken, the story of how Cavendish made the impossible possible will endure as one of the greatest in the history of sports.
