Greg Lemond Awarded Congressional Gold Medal

Three-time Tour de France champion Greg Lemond received a Congressional gold medal at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday morning.

Lemond made history in 1986 as the first American to win the Tour de France, only a few years after he relocated to Europe to chase his dreams as a professional cyclist.

“This honor is beyond what I expected, and I accept it with deep gratitude and humility,” Lemond shared. “Cycling wasn’t something I even knew existed when I was 14 in 1976. I stumbled upon bike racing when it passed my house, and after winning my first race, I was hooked.”

During his time in Europe, Lemond mentioned that people often labeled him as “American.”

“At one point, my parents suggested I embrace it fully. They joked about me wearing a cowboy hat and boots,” he recalled, laughing. “But I didn’t go that far. Still, being recognized as an ally and a friend in another land was meaningful.”

Lemond reflected on what it meant to be American abroad, especially in a sport that had long been dominated by Europeans before he arrived.

“Carrying the identity of an American overseas holds a significant legacy,” Lemond stated. “It reflects sacrifice, courage, and the important legacy that emerges when it matters most. I feel truly honored to receive this Congressional gold medal, but I recognize this honor extends beyond me.”

In 1987, Lemond suffered a hunting accident, causing him to miss two consecutive Tours. Nevertheless, he made a remarkable comeback in 1989, winning back-to-back titles.