With 147 professional victories to his name, Bernard Hinault remains a towering figure in the history of international cycling. Born in the Breton village of Yffiniac in 1954, he spent his career dominating the peloton through an aggressive, relentless style that earned him the enduring nickname Le Blaireau, or The Badger.
Early Development in Brittany
Raised in a farming household, Hinault began his athletic journey in Saint-Brieuc while attending a technical college. His interest in competitive cycling blossomed after receiving a bicycle at age 15. Joining the Club Olympique Briochin in 1971, he secured twelve victories during his debut season. His progression was briefly interrupted by military service with the 21st Marine Infantry Regiment in Sissonne during 1973, but he returned to competitive form by 1974.
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Turning professional in 1975 with the Gitane–Campagnolo team, Hinault quickly established himself as a dominant force. His breakthrough occurred in 1977 with victories at the Liège–Bastogne–Liège classic and the Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré. By 1978, he claimed his first Grand Tour victories at both the Vuelta a España and the Tour de France, signaling the start of a decade defined by his authority over the sport.
Dominance and Rivalries
Hinault secured five Tour de France titles throughout his career, alongside wins at the Giro d'Italia and the 1980 World Championship road race. His tenure was marked by high-profile team transitions, including a move to La Vie Claire, and notable rivalries, most notably with teammate Greg LeMond during the 1986 Tour de France. Upon his retirement at the end of that season, he transitioned into farming and performed enforcement duties for Tour de France organizers until 2016.
Fast facts
- Born: 14 November 1954, Yffiniac
- Nickname: Le Blaireau
- Professional debut: 1975
- Total professional victories: 147
- Legion of Honour: Knight (1986), Officer (2008)
- Grand Tour victories: 10
- Post-career occupation: Farmer
Questions readers ask
How many times did Bernard Hinault win the Tour de France?
He won the Tour de France five times.
What did Hinault do after retiring from professional cycling?
He pursued farming and worked in enforcement duties for the organizers of the Tour de France until 2016.
Achievements
- Champion des champions français de L'Équipe
