Cycling Legend Eddy Merckx Says He Wouldn't Enjoy Racing in Today's Era

Eddy Merckx, widely regarded as the greatest cyclist of all time, recently revealed in an interview that he would not have enjoyed being a professional cyclist in the current era of the sport. The 78-year-old Belgian, who dominated cycling in the 1960s and 1970s, cited the more controlled and restricted nature of modern racing as the main reason.

Merckx was known for his insatiable appetite for racing, competing in up to 195 races in a single year at his peak. In contrast, today's top cyclists like Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard participate in around 50-68 races annually, with a heavy emphasis on the Tour de France. "I wouldn't have liked to race today," Merckx said, noting that he "wouldn't have participated in all the races" due to the current restrictions.

The five-time Tour de France winner also commented on his fixation with constantly trying to enhance his equipment, even though it didn't always work out. "I was obsessed with cycling and my bike," Merckx said. "In my era, the bikes were not even custom-made, and I won my first world title on a standard bicycle."

Merckx believes that the sport has become much more scientific and structured compared to his racing days. He suggests that while young riders today are accustomed to this environment, they "don't really know anything else." The Belgian legend feels he would not have fit into the current cycling world, as he was simply too passionate about racing.

Why this matters: Eddy Merckx's comments shed light on the significant changes in professional cycling over the past few decades. His perspective as one of the sport's greatest champions highlights the shift towards a more controlled and specialized approach to racing, which may have implications for the future development of cycling talent and the overall excitement of the sport for fans.

Despite his critique of modern cycling, Merckx remains a revered figure in the sport. His extraordinary achievements, including a record 525 career victories, continue to inspire cyclists around the world. While the nature of professional cycling may have changed since his racing days, Merckx's legacy as one of the greatest cyclists of all time remains secure.

Key Takeaways

• Eddy Merckx, cycling's GOAT, says he wouldn't enjoy modern cycling's controlled nature.
• Merckx raced up to 195 races per year, unlike today's top cyclists who do 50-68.
• Merckx was obsessed with enhancing his equipment, even though it didn't always work.
• Merckx believes cycling has become more scientific and structured compared to his era.
• Despite his critique, Merckx's legacy as one of the greatest cyclists remains secure.