Eddy Merckx in 2025: Is He Still Cycling's Greatest?

Is eddy merckx still the greatest cyclist in 2025?

When you ask any cycling fan, seasoned commentator, or even a casual observer who the greatest cyclist of all time is, one name echoes across generations: Eddy Merckx. But in 2025, with new stars rising and the sport evolving, does the legend of Merckx still hold the same weight? This article dives deep into the ultra-recent English-language sources, the latest debates, and the living legacy of the man known as 'the Cannibal.' We’ll explore why, even at 80, Eddy Merckx remains the gold standard in cycling, how his achievements are measured against today’s champions, and what his enduring influence means for fans, athletes, and the sport itself.

The legend of eddy merckx: a career that redefined cycling

To understand why the phrase eddy merckx greatest cyclist still dominates headlines and conversations, you have to look at the sheer magnitude of his achievements. According to Bicycling Magazine (October 2025), Merckx’s palmarès is not just impressive—it’s almost mythical:

• 525 career victories, a record that remains untouched
• 11 Grand Tour wins (Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, Vuelta a España)
• All five Monuments conquered (Milan-San Remo, Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, Giro di Lombardia)
• 3 World Championships

These numbers are more than statistics; they are the backbone of cycling’s modern mythology. In the words of CyclingNews (June 2025), Merckx’s dominance “set a standard that every champion since has been measured against.”

Why does eddy merckx’s legacy matter in 2025?

It’s easy to relegate sporting legends to the past, but Merckx’s story is different. His legacy is not just a relic—it’s a living, breathing part of cycling culture. In 2025, as CyclingUpToDate.com highlights, Merckx remains the “benchmark for greatness,” the yardstick by which every new champion is measured.

Why does this matter? Because every time a new prodigy emerges—think Tadej Pogačar, Remco Evenepoel, or Egan Bernal—the inevitable question arises: “Are they the next Merckx?” This ongoing comparison keeps Merckx’s achievements relevant, sparking debates, inspiring athletes, and fueling the dreams of fans worldwide.

Comparing eras: merckx vs. pogacar and the modern greats

In October 2025, the cycling world is abuzz with comparisons between Merckx and today’s superstars, especially Tadej Pogačar. The debate is not just about numbers—it’s about context, dominance, and the evolution of the sport.

Statistical showdown: merckx vs. pogacar

As CyclingUpToDate.com points out, while Pogačar is a generational talent, Merckx’s all-encompassing dominance remains unmatched. The numbers tell only part of the story; it’s the breadth and consistency of Merckx’s victories that set him apart.

The cultural impact: merckx as a benchmark and inspiration

Merckx’s influence extends far beyond the record books. In 2025, his name is invoked in every major cycling debate, his career dissected by analysts, and his ethos admired by young riders. According to Cycling Report (October 2025), Merckx’s “relentless pursuit of victory and refusal to settle for second place” continues to inspire not just cyclists, but anyone striving for excellence.

His story is woven into the fabric of cycling culture. From the bikes we ride to the way races are covered in the media, Merckx’s legacy is everywhere. Even the 1970s bike boom—a period that transformed urban cycling—owes much to the popularity Merckx brought to the sport.

How merckx’s status solves modern cycling debates

While Merckx’s status as the greatest cyclist doesn’t “solve” practical problems in 2025, it does provide a crucial reference point. In a sport where records are constantly challenged and new technologies change the game, having a universally acknowledged benchmark helps contextualize achievements. It gives fans and commentators a way to measure greatness, debate legacies, and celebrate progress.

For example, when Tadej Pogačar wins a Monument or a Grand Tour, the immediate question is: “How does this compare to Merckx?” This comparison isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about understanding the evolution of the sport and appreciating the magnitude of current achievements.

Concrete benefits for fans, athletes, and the cycling community

What does the enduring legend of Merckx offer to people in 2025? The benefits are both cultural and practical:

• Inspiration for athletes: Merckx’s relentless drive sets a standard for training, ambition, and resilience.
• Context for fans: His records provide a framework for understanding and appreciating modern cycling feats.
• Rich storytelling for media: Journalists and commentators use Merckx’s career as a narrative anchor in coverage and analysis.
• Educational value: New fans learn about cycling’s history and values through the story of Merckx.

In short, the phrase eddy merckx greatest cyclist is more than a title—it’s a living resource for everyone involved in the sport.

Recent use cases: how merckx’s legacy shapes 2025 cycling

In 2025, Merckx’s name is not just a historical footnote—it’s a practical tool in sports analysis, media coverage, and fan engagement. Here are some real-world examples:

• Media debates: Every major cycling event features discussions comparing current winners to Merckx, as seen in Bicycling Magazine’s October 2025 analysis.
• Data-driven analysis: Outlets like CyclingUpToDate.com use Merckx’s stats as a baseline for evaluating new champions.
• Fan discussions: Online forums and social media are filled with debates about whether anyone can surpass Merckx’s records.
• Brand storytelling: Companies reference Merckx’s era in marketing campaigns, drawing on his legacy to evoke authenticity and excellence.

Even the ongoing debate about Lance Armstrong’s legacy, as discussed on RideCyclonix, often circles back to Merckx as the “clean” standard for greatness.

Frequently asked questions about eddy merckx in 2025

Every October, as the cycling season winds down, a familiar set of questions resurfaces among fans and commentators:

• Is Merckx still the greatest cyclist of all time? The consensus in 2025 remains yes, though the debate is livelier than ever thanks to the exploits of riders like Pogačar.
• How does Merckx compare to current stars? Statistically, no one matches his breadth of victories, but the conversation is ongoing as new talents emerge.
• Will anyone ever surpass Merckx’s records? Most experts believe it’s unlikely, given the specialization and competitiveness of modern cycling.
• What makes Merckx’s achievements unique? It’s not just the numbers—it’s the way he dominated every type of race, from sprints to mountain stages to classics.

News and trends: merckx’s relevance in october 2025

While there’s no breaking news about Merckx himself in early October 2025, his legacy is front and center in the ongoing “GOAT” debates. The cycling press is filled with retrospectives, statistical analyses, and cultural reflections on what Merckx means to the sport today.

For example, Bicycling Magazine’s October 2025 feature explores how Merckx’s records are used to contextualize Pogačar’s achievements, while RideCyclonix revisits the 1970s bike boom and its lessons for today’s urban cycling culture—an era Merckx helped define.

What the experts say: voices from the latest sources

Let’s hear directly from the most recent English-language sources:

• CyclingNews (June 2025): “Merckx’s legacy is not just about numbers, but about the way he changed the sport—his hunger, his versatility, his relentless pursuit of victory.”
• Bicycling Magazine (October 2025): “Pogačar isn’t the GOAT yet, but Merckx should watch… The debate is alive, but the standard remains the same.”
• CyclingUpToDate.com (October 2025): “The battle for cycling immortality is ongoing, but Merckx’s palmarès is still the reference point.”
• Cycling Report (October 2025): “Merckx’s example is as relevant today as it was in the 1970s. His records are a life lesson, not just a sporting one.”

Lessons from the past: the 1970s bike boom and merckx’s influence

The 1970s were a transformative decade for cycling, both as a sport and as a mode of urban transport. Merckx’s dominance coincided with a global surge in bike sales and a new appreciation for cycling’s health and environmental benefits. As RideCyclonix notes, the lessons from that era—community, accessibility, and the joy of riding—are more relevant than ever in today’s cities.

Merckx’s popularity helped fuel this boom, making cycling aspirational and accessible. His image adorned posters, magazines, and even cereal boxes, turning him into a household name far beyond Belgium or Europe.

How merckx’s story inspires the next generation

Every young cyclist dreams of greatness, but few have a roadmap as clear as the one Merckx laid out. His story is a masterclass in ambition, resilience, and adaptability. Whether you’re a junior racer or a weekend warrior, there’s something to learn from the way Merckx approached every race—with total commitment and a refusal to accept limits.

Coaches and parents often use Merckx’s example to teach values like humility, hard work, and respect for the sport. His willingness to race anywhere, anytime, against anyone, is a lesson in courage and sportsmanship.

The future of the “greatest cyclist” debate

Will anyone ever surpass Merckx? The experts are divided. Some believe that the increasing specialization and competitiveness of modern cycling make it nearly impossible for any one rider to dominate as Merckx did. Others point to the rise of multi-talented stars like Pogačar as evidence that records are made to be broken.

But one thing is certain: as long as cycling exists, the debate will continue. And at the heart of that debate will always be the question—what does it mean to be the greatest?

Internal and external resources for further reading

• For a detailed comparison of Merckx and Pogačar, see CyclingUpToDate.com.
• Explore the ongoing GOAT debate in Bicycling Magazine.
• Read about the 1970s bike boom and its lessons for urban cycling at RideCyclonix.
• Discover how Merckx’s era compares to other cycling legends, including Lance Armstrong, at RideCyclonix.

Is eddy merckx truly the greatest cyclist of all time?

When you type 'eddy merckx greatest cyclist' into your search bar in October 2025, you are not alone. Across the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, and Ireland, thousands are doing the same—hungry for facts, stories, and a verdict on a debate that has spanned generations. Is Eddy Merckx, the Belgian legend known as 'The Cannibal,' still the greatest cyclist of all time, or has the rise of new champions like Tadej Pogačar changed the landscape? This article dives deep into the latest search trends, records, and the enduring fascination with Merckx, blending hard data with the kind of storytelling that makes cycling history come alive.

Why are people searching for 'eddy merckx greatest cyclist' in 2025?

In the world of cycling, legends are made on the road, but their status is cemented in the hearts and minds of fans. In 2025, the search for 'eddy merckx greatest cyclist' is driven by a perfect storm of nostalgia, curiosity, and the relentless march of new talent. The recent exploits of Tadej Pogačar, who achieved the coveted Triple Crown in 2024, have reignited debates about greatness. Fans and newcomers alike want to know: does Merckx's legacy still stand unchallenged?

But it is not just about comparison. Many are looking for updated statistics—how many Grand Tours did Merckx win, how many stages, and what makes his records so enduring? Others are drawn to the stories: why was he called 'The Cannibal,' and what was it like to witness his dominance in the 1960s and 70s?

The main search queries and their meaning

Let us break down the most common queries users are typing this month, and what they reveal about the collective curiosity of the cycling world.

• 'Eddy Merckx greatest cyclist': The core question, seeking a definitive answer or argument.
• 'Is Eddy Merckx the greatest cyclist of all time?': A direct challenge, often leading to comparison articles or debates.
• 'Eddy Merckx cycling records 2025': Users want the latest numbers, updated for the current year.
• 'Why is Eddy Merckx considered the greatest cyclist?': A search for context, stories, and expert opinions.
• 'Eddy Merckx vs Tadej Pogacar greatest cyclist debate': The intergenerational rivalry that keeps forums and social media buzzing.
• 'Eddy Merckx achievements and records': A hunt for lists, stats, and milestones.

Alternative queries this week include 'Who is the greatest cyclist ever: Eddy Merckx or Pogačar?', 'Eddy Merckx cycling legacy 2025', and 'Eddy Merckx Cannibal nickname meaning'. These searches show a thirst for both hard facts and the colorful anecdotes that make Merckx's story legendary.

The context: Why Merckx’s legend endures in 2025

Why does the legend of Eddy Merckx still loom so large? Part of the answer lies in the numbers. Merckx’s eleven Grand Tour victories, sixty-four stage wins, and unmatched haul of Monuments (the five most prestigious one-day races) have set a bar that few have even approached. But numbers alone do not tell the whole story.

In 2025, the context of these searches is shaped by several factors:

• Comparisons with modern champions: The exploits of Tadej Pogačar, especially his Triple Crown in 2024, have sparked renewed debates about what greatness means in cycling.
• Desire for updated records: Fans want to know if Merckx’s records still stand, and how they compare to today’s stars.
• Historical inspiration: Many are discovering Merckx for the first time, drawn in by his nickname 'The Cannibal' and the stories of his relentless racing style.
• Content creation: Journalists, bloggers, and podcasters are producing features and retrospectives, often timed with major cycling anniversaries or events.

For a deep dive into why Merckx is still considered the greatest, see the authoritative feature on CyclingNews.

How users research Eddy Merckx: The typical journey

The search for 'eddy merckx greatest cyclist' rarely happens in isolation. It is part of a broader journey through cycling history, statistics, and debate. Here is how a typical research path unfolds:

Before searching 'eddy merckx greatest cyclist'

• Looking up recent Grand Tour results or current champions like Tadej Pogačar
• Exploring the history of the Tour de France or the Giro d’Italia
• Reading about the Monuments and their significance

After finding information on Merckx

• Diving into specific moments, like his Hour Record or legendary stage wins
• Comparing Merckx to other icons such as Fausto Coppi or Bernard Hinault
• Researching training methods, physiology, or even Merckx’s personality
• Exploring the origins and meaning of his nickname, 'The Cannibal'

What users want to know: The most frequent follow-up questions

Once users start down the Merckx rabbit hole, their curiosity multiplies. Here are the most common follow-up questions, each opening a new chapter in the story:

• How many Grand Tours did Eddy Merckx win?
• What is the Hour Record and why is it important?
• Who holds the record for most Tour de France stage wins?
• How does Merckx’s dominance compare to modern cyclists?
• What are the five Monuments Eddy Merckx won?

These questions reflect a desire for both hard data and the drama of cycling history. The Hour Record, for example, is not just a number—it is a test of human endurance and innovation, a story of pain and glory played out on the velodrome.

The language of greatness: Semantic analysis in October 2025

In 2025, the vocabulary around 'eddy merckx greatest cyclist' has become more technical and nuanced. Here are the main lexical fields and new terms shaping the conversation:

• Cycling achievements: victories, records, Grand Tours, Monuments, stage wins
• Historical context: legacy, dominance, era, legend, Cannibal
• Comparisons: Pogačar, Roche, Coppi, Cavendish
• Technical terms: Hour Record, Triple Crown, jerseys (general, points, mountains)

New phrases like 'cycling immortality' and 'modern-day trophy engraving' have emerged, reflecting the ongoing debate about how to honor legends in a sport that is always evolving. The vocabulary has also shifted in the last month, with more focus on intergenerational comparisons and specific records, such as the number of Tour de France stage wins.

What makes Eddy Merckx’s records so legendary?

Numbers can be cold, but in Merckx’s case, they are almost poetic. His eleven Grand Tour victories (five Tour de France, five Giro d’Italia, one Vuelta a España), thirty-four Tour de France stage wins, and nineteen Monument victories are not just statistics—they are milestones that define the very limits of human achievement in cycling.

For a detailed list of his achievements and the context behind each, the Eddy Merckx Wikipedia page is an invaluable resource.

The Cannibal: Stories and personality behind the legend

Why 'The Cannibal'? The nickname was not just about winning—it was about how Merckx won. He attacked relentlessly, never settling for second place, and often crushed the hopes of his rivals with a smile that could be both charming and chilling. There is a famous anecdote from the 1969 Tour de France: after winning a stage by a huge margin, a journalist asked Merckx why he did not ease up. He replied, 'I ride to win, not to please others.'

His appetite for victory was so voracious that even his closest friends sometimes wondered if he ever truly rested. The nickname stuck, and today, 'The Cannibal' is shorthand for a level of dominance rarely seen in any sport.

Comparing eras: Merckx vs Pogačar and the modern debate

One of the hottest topics in 2025 is the comparison between Eddy Merckx and Tadej Pogačar. With Pogačar’s Triple Crown in 2024, fans and analysts are asking: does Merckx’s record still stand as the gold standard?

• Merckx’s era: Fewer team controls, longer stages, and less specialization. Riders often competed in both Grand Tours and Classics in the same season.
• Pogačar’s era: More scientific training, advanced nutrition, and a globalized peloton. The competition is deeper, but the calendar is more specialized.

While some argue that modern riders face tougher competition, others point out that Merckx’s versatility and sheer volume of wins remain unmatched. The debate is lively, and likely to continue as new champions emerge.

For a nuanced perspective on cycling’s evolving heritage, check out the Cycling Heritage Rides 2025 feature.

How the search landscape has changed: Devices and geography

In October 2025, the majority of searches for 'eddy merckx greatest cyclist' happen on mobile devices. Fans check stats and debate results in real time during races, while journalists and enthusiasts use desktop computers for deeper research and long-form reading.

Geographically, the interest is strongest in countries where cycling has a rich tradition and English is the main language: the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, and Ireland. This reflects both the global reach of Merckx’s legend and the enduring appeal of cycling’s grand narratives.

Intent signals: What users really want

The dominant intent behind these searches is informational. Users want to understand why Eddy Merckx is considered the greatest cyclist, what records he holds, and how his achievements stack up against today’s stars. There is less interest in buying products or tickets, though some seek out books or documentaries for a deeper dive.

Specificity is high: users are not just looking for generic lists, but for detailed breakdowns of Grand Tour wins, Monument victories, and the technicalities of feats like the Hour Record. There is also a moderate sense of urgency, often tied to recent cycling events or anniversaries.

Key moments and anecdotes: The stories that define Merckx

Beyond the numbers, it is the stories that keep Merckx’s legend alive. There was the day he rode the final kilometers of Milan-San Remo with a broken jaw, refusing to quit. Or the time he attacked in the mountains, leaving rivals gasping for air and fans gasping in disbelief. Each victory was not just a win, but a statement—a reminder that greatness is as much about character as it is about results.

These anecdotes are not just cycling folklore; they are lessons in resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of excellence. They are why, decades after his last race, people still search for 'eddy merckx greatest cyclist'—hoping to find not just facts, but inspiration.

How to use this knowledge: For fans, creators, and educators

Whether you are a cycling fan, a content creator, or an educator, understanding the search intent around 'eddy merckx greatest cyclist' can help you craft more engaging stories, lessons, or debates. Here are some practical ways to use this insight:

• For fans: Use official sources and deep-dive articles to fuel your debates and discussions.
• For creators: Blend updated stats with personal stories and expert analysis to create compelling content.
• For educators: Use Merckx’s career as a case study in resilience, strategy, and the evolution of sport.

And if you are planning a cycling heritage trip or want to experience the sport’s history firsthand, resources like Cycling Heritage Rides 2025 offer a bridge between past and present.

Further reading and resources

For those who want to go deeper, here are some essential resources:

• CyclingNews: Why the Cannibal is the Greatest Cyclist of All Time
• Wikipedia: Eddy Merckx
• Giro d’Italia History and Origins 2025
• Cycling Heritage Rides 2025

Final thoughts: The search for greatness continues

The story of Eddy Merckx is not just about numbers or trophies. It is about the pursuit of greatness, the hunger to win, and the legacy that inspires new generations. As long as there are cyclists chasing dreams on the road, the question 'Is Eddy Merckx the greatest cyclist of all time?' will echo through the peloton—and in the search bars of fans around the world.