description Greg LeMond vs Laurent Fignon (1989 Tour de France) Overview
The 1989 Tour de France cycling race concluded with a historic duel between American Greg LeMond and French rider Laurent Fignon. The race was ultimately decided in the final stage, an individual time trial from Versailles to Paris. LeMond used specialized aerodynamic handlebars and a helmet to gain a competitive advantage, finishing 58 seconds faster than Fignon on the stage. This resulted in LeMond winning the Tour by a record-setting margin of just eight seconds, the closest finish in the event's history.
help Greg LeMond vs Laurent Fignon (1989 Tour de France) FAQ
Who won the 1989 Tour de France?
American cyclist Greg LeMond won the 1989 Tour de France, defeating French rider Laurent Fignon by a mere 8 seconds. This remains the narrowest margin of victory in the entire history of the Tour de France.
What equipment helped Greg LeMond win the 1989 Tour de France?
LeMond used specialized aerodynamic handlebars and a teardrop-shaped helmet during the final time trial from Versailles to Paris. This aerodynamic advantage allowed him to overcome a 50-second deficit to Fignon in the race's final stage.
How fast did Greg LeMond ride in the final time trial of the 1989 Tour?
During the final 24.5-kilometer individual time trial into Paris, LeMond averaged an astonishingly fast speed of 54.55 km/h. He rode so fast that French race organizers initially accused his equipment of being unsportsmanlike.
How many stages did Laurent Fignon win in the 1989 Tour de France?
Laurent Fignon actually won three individual stages and wore the yellow jersey as the race leader for much of the 1989 Tour. Despite his dominance throughout the three-week race, he ultimately lost the overall title to LeMond on the final day.
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