The cycling world mourns the passing of Rick Van Looya true legend who marked the history of this sport. Known as theEmperor of HerentalsVan Looy was the first cyclist to conquer all five classical Monumentan achievement that has inspired generations of runners. His life was dedicated to cycling, characterized by a passion and determination that made him an icon in the cycling scene.
Born on November 20, 1933, Van Looy began cycling at a young age, developing his love of cycling while delivering newspapers at the age of 12. Growing up in the small town of Herentals, Belgium, his talent quickly emerged, leading him to compete with legendary opponents such as Fausto Coppi ed Eddy Merckx. His career was full of successes, including the title of world champion on the road in 1960 and 1961, which consolidated his position among cycling’s greats.
Successes in the classics
Van Looy has distinguished himself as a true classics specialist, achieving victories in some of the most iconic races on the cycling calendar. Here is a list of his major victories in the classics:
- Parigi-Roubaix: 3 volte (1961, 1962, 1965)
- Tour of Flanders: 2 volte (1959, 1962)
- Milan-Sanremo: 1 time (1958)
- Liège-Bastogne-Liège: 1 time (1961)
In addition, he has triumphed in other prestigious races such as the Walloon Arrowil Parigi-Tour and the Paris-Brussels. His skill wasn’t just limited to street racing; Van Looy has also proven to be a champion on the track, winning twelve times Six Daysan event that tests endurance and speed.
A versatile athlete
With a total of 367 victories proven in his career, Van Looy is considered one of the most versatile cyclists of his era. In addition to his successes in the classics, he had a significant impact in the great stage racestotaling 39 victories, including:
- 12 at the Giro d’Italia
- 9 the Tour de France
- 18 at the Vuelta de España
These achievements helped build his reputation as one of the greatest cyclists of all time.
After retiring in 1970, Van Looy continued to influence the world of cycling as sporting director and president of the Herentals football club, demonstrating his dedication to the community and new generations of athletes.
Rik Van Looy’s passing at the age of 90 marks the end of an era in cycling. His figure will remain imprinted in the collective memory not only for his extraordinary career, but also for his fighting spirit and his passion for sport. His legacy lives on through today’s cyclists, who continue to draw inspiration from the greats of the past. His victories in classical Monument they paved the way for future champions, such as Eddy Merckx e Roger De Vlaeminckwho followed in his footsteps.
Rik Van Looy will not be forgotten. His name will forever be associated with a cyclist who knew how to transform challenges into victories, leaving an indelible mark in the hearts of all cycling enthusiasts. His life is a tribute to his passion, determination and love for the sport, values that will continue to live on through future generations of cyclists.
