Mark Cavendish has once again cemented his place in cycling history with his 35th victory in the Tour de France. The 39-year-old sprinter from the Isle of Man achieved this milestone by winning the fifth stage of the Tour in Saint-Vulbas, surpassing Belgian legend Eddy Merckx's record of 34 stage wins.
Cavendish's journey on the Tour de France began in 2008, and over the years, he has consistently demonstrated his prowess. His first victory came in the fifth stage between Cholet and Châteauroux, and he has since accumulated victories with five different teams, showcasing his adaptability and skill.
In 2009, Cavendish had a remarkable year, winning six stages and dominating the sprints. He continued to shine in subsequent years, notably winning the final stage on the Champs-Élysées four times consecutively between 2009 and 2012. His performance in 2021, where he won four stages, was a testament to his enduring talent.
Beyond the Tour de France, Cavendish has also achieved significant success in other grand tours, including 17 stage wins in the Tour of Italy and three in the Vuelta. His total career victories are estimated at 160, including a world championship title in 2011 and a victory in Milan-San Remo in 2009.
Cavendish's recent victory was not without its challenges. The fifth stage saw a dramatic finish with Mads Pedersen falling 500 meters from the end, allowing Cavendish to seize the opportunity and secure his historic win. His emotional reaction post-race highlighted the significance of this achievement and his relentless pursuit of victory.
- Mark Cavendish's career has been marked by numerous records and milestones. His ability to win stages over a span of nearly 16 years speaks volumes about his longevity and consistency in the sport. His 35 victories on the Tour de France are a testament to his sprinting prowess and strategic acumen.
- Cavendish's achievements extend beyond the Tour de France. He has been a formidable competitor in the Tour of Italy and the Vuelta, adding to his impressive tally of grand tour stage wins. His versatility is further demonstrated by his success in one-day races and other tours.
- The fifth stage of the Tour de France, which saw Cavendish's latest victory, was a flat stage that ended in a sprint. The stage was animated by a breakaway from Clément Russo and Mattéo Vercher, who were eventually caught 30 kilometers from the finish. The peloton prepared for a massive sprint, leading to Cavendish's triumph.
- Cavendish's emotional response to his victory underscores the significance of this milestone in his career. His determination to seize every opportunity and his strategic positioning during races have been key factors in his success. As he looks forward to future stages, his thirst for victories remains undiminished.
