Introduction to Biniam Girmay
Africa’s most prominent cyclist, Biniam Girmay, made history last year by winning three sprint stages in the Tour de France and taking the Green jersey for the best driver with the most points. As the first black professional cyclist from Africa to achieve this feat, it was a momentous occasion for African cycling and his home country, Eritrea. In the capital city of Asmara, Girmay was greeted with a hero’s welcome, complete with a car procession where people danced and cheered for their hero.
Challenges on the Tour
Although fans from Eritrea continue to celebrate him from afar, Girmay has found life on the tour to be more challenging this year. Despite finishing second in the opening stage behind Belgian Jasper Philipsen, he expressed disappointment at not having a teammate to support him. "I felt good and enjoyed the day, but I had to do everything alone, so I used up a lot of energy. And Jasper was the fastest in the end," Girmay said. He acknowledged that he was a bit disappointed, stating, "At least I would have liked to have a teammate with me. It has to get better. But it is what it is. We are on the Tour de France and not everything will always run perfectly."
Overcoming Obstacles
Girmay’s performance was hindered by a knee injury in the following stages, but he remains determined to achieve his goals. He aims to win a stage again and compete for the Green jersey. When asked if the pressure of last year’s success weighs on him, Girmay replied, "No, it only gives me motivation. I spoke to a few people who have been there many times and they say that winning is only super hard. And I had three in a year. That gives me a lot of confidence for the rest of my career."
A Mature Athlete
Despite his success, Girmay has not changed as a person, according to those close to him. His coach and sports director, Aike Visbeek, noted, "There are more people who want something from him. But he’s still the same. His career is quick, but it is not so much the green jersey that has changed him, but rather the fact that he is a young man who matures." Girmay is aware of his role as a representative of Africa and wants to give his best for himself, his family, and his continent.
Uncertainty about the World Championships
Girmay’s participation in the World Championships in Rwanda, scheduled to take place from September 21 to 28, remains unclear. He has expressed concerns about the course, which he believes favors climbers over sprinters. "It is a milestone for Africa, but for me, the course goes far beyond my own skills," Girmay said earlier in the year. However, he has left the door open for participation if his country calls upon him. For now, Girmay is focused on the Tour de France, where he remains in the race for the green jersey thanks to his participation in intermediate sprints.
