Biniam Girmay’s Landmark Victories in the 2024 Tour de France
A surge of pride, joy, and hope filled my heart as Biniam Girmay crossed the finish line to win Stage 3 of the 2024 Tour de France. As an Eritrean and the Editor-in-Chief of Gazetta, witnessing this historic moment is profoundly moving and signifies much more than a sporting victory.
Girmay’s achievement in the challenging 230.8 km stage from Piacenza to Turin marks him as the first Black African cyclist to win a stage in the Tour de France. His triumph showcases his remarkable talent and relentless determination, lighting the way for aspiring athletes across Africa.
Reflecting on his journey, Girmay shared, “This win is not just for me, it’s for all of Eritrea and Africa. To stand here as a stage winner in the Tour de France, competing against the best in the world, is a dream come true. I hope this inspires many young cyclists back home.”
Since his victory in Stage 3, Girmay has continued to excel, securing additional wins in Stage 8 and Stage 12. His consistent performance demonstrates that he is still going strong and remains a formidable competitor in the race.
Girmay’s path to this milestone has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. He candidly discussed the obstacles African riders face, such as relocating to Europe for better training and overcoming language barriers. “I had to come to Europe, learn English, learn the cycling language. It takes time and support. I should thank my team because with them I have grown every season.”
Biniam Girmay upon becoming the first Black rider to win a stage of the Tour de France; Image Source: Anne-Christine Poujoulat/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images
This moment also resonates with my personal experiences. During my summer visits to Asmara, I vividly remember watching cyclists gather every Saturday for their weekend rides. The streets were alive with energy, and the sense of community was tangible. These moments underscored the importance of cycling in Eritrean culture and left a lasting impression on me.
I also recall the excitement when Eritrean cyclists toured the UAE. My late father took my sister, brother, and me to follow the cyclists, cheering them on as they raced through the Emirates. These experiences instilled in me a deep appreciation for the sport and its significance to our community. Witnessing Girmay’s win brings all those memories full circle, underscoring why cycling holds such a special place in our hearts.
Girmay’s victory is more than a personal milestone; it represents a significant step for Eritrean sports and the broader African sporting community. It demonstrates that African athletes can compete at the highest levels and succeed, challenging stereotypes and paving the way for greater inclusivity and representation in global sports.
His success is truly uplifting. Girmay’s journey reminds us that with perseverance and support, our athletes can achieve greatness on the world stage. This victory is just the beginning, and we eagerly anticipate more historic achievements and breakthroughs in the future.
Biniam Girmay’s triumph showcases the enduring spirit of Eritrea and the promise of a brighter future for African sports. His win is an inspiration to not just cyclists but all athletes and dreamers across our continent. This defining moment will resonate for years to come and pave the way for future generations.
Congratulations, Biniam, on making history and making us all incredibly proud.
