Eddy Merckx - The Cannibal

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For 14 years between 1965 and 1978, cyclist Edouard Louis Joseph Merckx dominated his rivals, amassing 445 victories, including five Tour de France wins and all the monument races. His legacy is intertwined with the careers he overshadowed, as his dominance was so profound that by 1973, he was ordered to avoid the Tour for the event's sake. A striking example of his prowess occurred during Stage 17 of the 1969 Tour de France, where he, already in the yellow jersey, rode the final 140 kilometers alone, finishing eight minutes ahead of his closest competitor. This era is often referred to as cycling's Golden Age, filled with memorable figures who would have been legends in any other context, yet Merckx eclipsed them all. His incredible success raises questions about his methods and the feelings of his rivals. He faced three drug tests that he claimed were unjust, and a tragic crash at a track meet that killed his pacer, which he said affected him deeply. Additionally, he endured an attack by a spectator in 1975. Despite his remarkable achievements, little is known about Merckx beyond his victories. This biography offers a comprehensive look at the man behind the legend, revealing the truths that have long remained hidden.