Eritrean Cyclist Biniam Girmay Makes History at Tour de France

Eritrean cyclist Biniam Girmay made history on Monday by becoming the first Black African rider to win a stage at the Tour de France. Girmay triumphed over competitors Fernando Gaviria and Arnaud De Lie, completing the stage in 5 hours, 26 minutes, and 48 seconds.

The victory came on the third day of this year’s race, during the longest stage, which covered 230.8 kilometers (approximately 143 miles) between Piacenza and Turin.

Girmay’s achievement adds to his impressive resume; two years ago, he became the first Black African to win a stage in a Grand Tour by securing a victory at the Giro d’Italia. The Grand Tours include the Giro d’Italia, the Tour de France, and the Spanish Vuelta.