Raymond Poulidor

Raymond Poulidor (Known as "Poupou")

["cyclist", "Vuelta a España winner", "French sporting icon"]

Born Apr 15, 1936

Masbaraud-Mérignat, France

Passed Away Nov 13, 2019 Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat, France

Lifespan 83 years old

8 views

Notice / Correction

"The public loved me not for what I didn't win, but because I never gave up."

Archival Overview

French racing cyclist affectionately adored as 'Poupou', eight-time Tour de France podium finisher and winner of the 1964 Vuelta a España.

Biographical Record

Raymond Poulidor (1936–2019), affectionately cherished by generations of French fans as Poupou and The Eternal Second, was one of France's most deeply beloved sporting figures. Over a 17-year professional career, Poulidor finished on the Tour de France podium a record eight times without ever wearing the yellow jersey, clashing in legendary duels with Jacques Anquetil and Eddy Merckx.

Far from a failure, Poulidor won 189 professional races, including the 1964 Vuelta a España, Milan-San Remo, Flèche Wallonne, and two Paris-Nice titles. His grandson Mathieu van der Poel continues the family cycling dynasty.

Key Life Milestones

May 17, 1964

Vuelta a España General Classification Victory

Won the Vuelta a España general classification, defeating Luis Otaño in a commanding time-trial exhibition.

July 12, 1964

The Epic Puy de Dôme Elbow-to-Elbow Duel

Fought shoulder-to-shoulder with Jacques Anquetil up the volcanic slopes of Puy de Dôme in cycling's most famous duel.

Memorial Guestbook & Tributes

0 messages recorded

Leave a Respectful Tribute

Select a sentiment or reaction (optional):

Rest in Peace Forever remembered and cherished Your legacy lives on in all of us With deep gratitude for your life and light

Your Name / Title *

Your Email (Private, for anti-abuse)

Tribute Message *

No tributes recorded yet. Be the first to leave a message in honor of Raymond Poulidor.

Final Resting Place

Perpetual Memorial

Cimetière de Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat
Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat, France

                         GPS: 45.8361, 1.4889                    

View on Memory Atlas

Archival Standards PastLegacies adheres to strict neutral biographical guidelines and legal standards of remembrance. Next-of-kin may request modifications or removal at any time via our expedited process.

Read Governance Policy →