In a candid and revealing interview, three-time Tour de France champion Greg LeMond opened up about his remarkable career, the dark side of professional cycling, and his unwavering commitment to clean sport. Here are the key insights from this compelling conversation:

LeMond's story begins with the hunting accident that nearly claimed his life in 1987. With remarkable detail, he recounts the moment his brother-in-law mistakenly shot him through a bush during a turkey hunt. "I didn't realize I got shot," LeMond recalls. "I just thought my gun went off because it was so loud." The severity of his injuries - a collapsed lung and massive blood loss - became apparent quickly. Thanks to a fortuitous helicopter evacuation, LeMond survived what could have been a fatal incident.

The accident's impact was devastating: LeMond lost 30 pounds of muscle mass, 70% of his blood volume, and his right lung never fully regained its capacity. Despite these setbacks, his naivety about the extent of his injuries may have been a blessing. "Because I wasn't told of all those limits, that might have been what helped me," he reflects. This mindset allowed him to maintain hope during his grueling comeback.

LeMond's career spanned a critical transition in cycling - the emergence of EPO and systematic doping. His stance against performance-enhancing drugs, particularly during the Lance Armstrong era, came at significant personal and professional cost. "I would have really profited had I gone along with it," LeMond admits, but his commitment to integrity prevented him from staying silent.

As a student of cycling physiology, LeMond brings unique insights into performance metrics. He explains how V02 max and sustainable power output are key indicators of natural ability versus enhanced performance. "There's no miracle, there's no secret training, there's no secret diet," he emphasizes, highlighting how basic physiology sets natural limits on human performance.

LeMond expresses cautious optimism about today's cycling, noting how young talents like Pogačar and Bernal are showing their abilities early - much like he did. However, he maintains a skeptical eye, particularly regarding mechanical doping and suspicious performance patterns. His analysis of cadence patterns and power output provides a fascinating framework for evaluating modern performances.

One of the most compelling segments details LeMond's complex relationship with Bernard Hinault during the 1986 Tour de France. What began as a mentor-protégé relationship evolved into one of cycling's most dramatic rivalries. LeMond reveals new details about team politics and broken promises that shaped that historic Tour.

Throughout the interview, LeMond's commitment to ethical sport shines through. His willingness to sacrifice personal gain for principle offers valuable lessons about leadership and integrity in professional sports. "When I give my word, I give my word. I don't break contracts," he states, exemplifying his principled approach to both sport and life.

LeMond's perspective on modern cycling is both hopeful and cautionary. He advocates for stronger anti-doping measures while acknowledging the sport has made progress. His suggestion for standardized VO2 max testing as part of the biological passport shows his continued commitment to clean sport.

Greg LeMond's story is more than just a cycling narrative - it's a testament to resilience, integrity, and the courage to stand for truth in sport. His journey from young phenom to outspoken advocate for clean cycling offers valuable lessons for athletes and sports administrators alike. As cycling continues to evolve, LeMond's insights and principles remain as relevant as ever, providing a blueprint for maintaining integrity in professional sport while pursuing excellence.

​The interview reveals a man who not only changed cycling through his athletic achievements but also through his unwavering commitment to clean sport, even when it came at great personal cost. His legacy extends far beyond his three Tour de France victories, serving as a reminder that true champions are defined not just by their victories, but by their values.

Listen to the interview online !
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