Laurent Fignon

Laurent Patrick Fignon (French pronunciation: [loʁɑ̃ fiɲɔ̃]; 12 August 1960 – 31 August 2010) was a French professional road bicycle racer who won the Tour de France in 1983 and 1984, as well as the Giro d'Italia in 1989. He held the title of FICP World No. 1 in 1989. Fignon came close to winning the Tour de France for a third time in 1989 but was defeated by Greg LeMond by eight seconds, the closest margin ever to decide the Tour. Fignon won many classic races, including consecutive victories in Milan–San Remo in 1988 and 1989. He died from cancer in 2010.

Early life and amateur career

Fignon was born in Montmartre, Paris. His family moved to Tournan-en-Brie in 1963, where he lived until he left for Paris at age 23.

Laurent Fignon's first sport was football, and he reached the level of playing for his département or area. However, friends persuaded him to try cycling, and in 1976, he participated in his first official race, which he won. Despite his parents' opposition to his racing, Fignon continued to compete without their knowledge. He won four more races in his first year, but only one in his second year. However, in his third year, he won 18 out of 36 races. Eventually, Fignon's parents allowed him to race, though they still believed he should prioritize his studies.