Eddy Merckx: The Fall of 'The Cannibal'
In 1975, the great Tour de France rider lost the race after being punched by a spectator
Sporting Witness · BBC World Service
July 19, 20149m 0s
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Show Notes
In 1975, the great Belgian cyclist Eddy Merckx lost the Tour de France after being punched by a spectator during a mountain stage. The incident marked the start of the decline of a rider so dominant he was nicknamed "The Cannibal". British cyclist Barry Hoban recalls the punch and shares his personal memories of racing with Merckx.
(Photo: Eddy Merckx. Credit: AFP/Getty Images)