The “Manx Missile” has raised the bar in professional road racing setting the mark for the most TDF stage wins. Cavendish turned professional in 2005 and quickly made a name for himself as one of the greatest sprinters on the road.
His career highlights include an impressive 35 stage wins at the Tour de France, making him the most successful rider in the race’s history. He also won 17 stages at the Giro d’Italia and three at the Vuelta a España, bringing his total Grand Tour stage victories to 55. His achievements extend beyond stage wins; he won the points classification at the Tour de France twice (2011 and 2021) and the Giro d’Italia in 2013.
In addition to his Grand Tour successes, Cavendish claimed victories in prestigious one-day races, including the Milan-San Remo in 2009 and the World Road Race Championships in 2011. His aggressive and determined racing style, combined with his ability to out-sprint the best, has cemented his legacy in the sport.
Cavendish’s career has not been without challenges. At time it looked like we would lose him from the peloton due to injury or changing winds in team management and sponsor but he has battled on and his resilience and determination have always seen him through. His contributions to cycling have been recognised with numerous awards and honours, including being knighted as a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) for his services to the sport.
His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of cyclists.
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