How did Greg LeMond’s Tour de France victories affect cycling in the United States?

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Olympic road cycling — cycling Individual Neutral Athlete Gleb Syritsa, a Russian passport holder, cycling past Les Invalides during the men's road cycling individual time trial at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Greg LeMond’s historic achievements significantly elevated the profile of cycling in the United States. As the first non-European rider to win the Tour de France, LeMond’s three victories (1986, 1989, and 1990) brought unprecedented American attention to the sport.1

Beyond his race results, LeMond transformed the professional landscape of cycling. He pioneered technological advancements, such as the introduction of aerodynamic handlebars and helmets, which became standard in the sport. Furthermore, by signing the first million-dollar contract in 1985, he effectively raised the general salary level for professional cyclists. His career served as a catalyst for American interest in competitive road racing, establishing a legacy that extended well beyond his time on the bike.1