Eddy Merckx heart touching statement as he mourn the passing of Legendary Champion Rik Van Looy

 

The cycling community has lost one of its true legends, as Rik Van Looy, a Belgian icon and one of the sport’s most decorated riders, passed away earlier this week at the age of 90. His death marks the end of an era in which he etched his name into the history books with remarkable achievements across the major Grand Tours.

Van Looy’s career spanned from the late 1950s into the 1970s, during which he established himself as a fierce competitor and an unrivaled sprinter. His tally of 37 Grand Tour stage wins — 7 at the Tour de France, 12 at the Giro d’Italia, and an astonishing 18 at the Vuelta a Espana — remains one of the most impressive records in cycling. Van Looy’s ability to dominate on the world’s biggest stages, combined with his tactical intelligence and relentless drive, made him one of the most formidable cyclists of his era.

Beyond his victories, Van Looy was renowned for his work ethic, competitive spirit, and his unwavering will to win. His influence on Belgian cycling, in particular, is unparalleled, inspiring generations of riders that followed in his wheel tracks.

Tributes from Cycling Legends

The news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the cycling world, with some of the sport’s biggest names paying their respects. Eddy Merckx, often regarded as the greatest cyclist in history,

expressed his admiration for Van Looy’s legacy. In a heartfelt statement to *Gazet van Antwerpen*, Merckx said, “He is one of the best Belgian riders ever. He was a great champion and a great opponent. His willpower and his will to win are things that will always stay with me.”

Roger De Vlaeminck, another legendary Belgian cyclist, also shared his thoughts. In an interview with the Belga news agency, he reflected on the inevitability of loss and the lasting impact of Van Looy’s career. “We all have to die, but it is always a shock when someone you know passes away,” said De Vlaeminck, who is now 77. “Rik Van Looy was fourteen years older than me. He would soon be 91.”

For Tom Boonen, who has often spoken of his deep admiration for Van Looy, the loss felt deeply personal. Boonen recalled a recent dinner with Van Looy to celebrate his 90th birthday. “I had no idea that he wasn’t doing so well anymore. Last year I went out for dinner with him for his 90th birthday. That was a super fun evening, he was still 100% sane. Anyone at that age would sign for that,” Boonen said, reflecting on the champion’s vitality even into his later years.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Rik Van Looy’s legacy goes far beyond the victories he achieved on the road. As a pioneer of Belgian cycling, he played an instrumental role in elevating the country’s stature in the sport. His contributions paved the way for future generations of Belgian riders, from the likes of Merckx to current-day stars like Wout van Aert and Remco Evenepoel.

Van Looy’s career also included numerous one-day race victories, including the prestigious Paris–Roubaix, where he won in 1962. Known for his quick finish and tactical genius, he was a master at reading races and positioning himself at the right moment to strike.

Cycling fans and pundits alike have hailed his work ethic, his ability to overcome obstacles, and his refusal to accept anything but the best from himself. “Rik was the epitome of Belgian cycling,” said cycling historian and journalist, Bart Wellens. “He set the benchmark for every rider who came after him, and his drive was infectious.”

Though Van Looy’s passing marks the end of a remarkable life, his influence will live on for years to come. His name will forever be associated with excellence in the sport, and his impact on Belgian cycling will remain indelible. As the cycling world mourns, it also celebrates the extraordinary legacy left behind by one of its greatest champions.