“The African King,” Biniam Girmay, is the talented Eritrean cyclist who secured the green sprinter’s jersey for his exceptional performance in the 2024 Tour de France. Girmay’s achievements in this year’s race have not only solidified his place among the elite cyclists in the sport but also inspired many across the globe.
“It’s my time,” Girmay said. “Now we are really part of the big races. We have a lot victories so it’s our time, it’s our moment. I never cry, but inside I am, I just have no words.”
“This is so important for cycling,” said Aike Visbeek, the performance director for Girmay’s Intermarche-Wanty team. “Now the world can see what is possible when we give these guys a chance.”
A victory for all of Africa. 🇪🇷
Biniam Girmay’s 2024 Tour de France run will go down in the history books. #TDF2024 pic.twitter.com/QnPB3bg8TE
— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) July 21, 2024
The “African King’s’ Historic Wins
Girmay’s journey in the 2024 Tour de France has been nothing short of spectacular. He became the first Black rider to win a stage in the competition’s history, clinching stages 3, 8, and 12. Only Tadej Pogacar, the Tour’s champion, had more stage wins than Girmay, with six.
Girmay, 24, held off Wout Van Aert and Pascal Ackerman to don his third vest, proving he was a formidable cyclist after an exciting Stage 12 triumph. Joe Rindl reported that the “‘African King’ has battled through visa issues and loneliness since he moved to Europe six years ago.”
“I’m just super happy for the future of Africa and the future of cycling”
Biniam Girmay spoke to Matt after the green jersey podium ceremony 💚🇪🇷#TDF2024 pic.twitter.com/45bNtdz1Ao
— ITV Cycling (@itvcycling) July 21, 2024
Girmay’s Impact and Legacy
Bini’s success in his second Tour de France has been a source of immense pride for Eritrea, the African continent, and black sports fans worldwide.
“To be one of the big symbols of Africans, a big pressure I know, but on the other hand, it’s really powerful to push me,” Girmay stated.
“So to see Girmay not only be competing but to also win a much coveted stage is incredible. He’s proven himself to be amongst the best riders in the world,” Mani Arthur noted, who manages the Black Cyclists Network.
Girmay may surpass the moniker of being known as the “African King” if he continues trending upwards in the world of cycling.
