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Photo: Lëa-Kim Châteauneuf (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Biniam
Girmay
Career overview
He has made history as the first black African cyclist to win a Grand Tour stage and has continued to break barriers in competitive cycling.
Visit the official Biniam Girmay site →
Career honours
1Giro d'Italia Stage Winner · 2022, first black African to win a Grand Tou
1Tour de France Green Jersey · 2024, first African to win any jersey at the
2Under-23 Road Race Silver Medal · 2021 UCI Road World Championships.
2Gent-Wevelgem Winner · 2022, first African winner of a classic race
Records
RFirst Black African to Win a Grand Tour Stage · Achieved at the 2022 Giro d'Italia.
RFirst African to Win a Jersey at the Tour de France · Won the Green Jersey in 2024.
Biography
Early Life and Origins
Biniam Girmay was born in Asmara, Eritrea, into a family with a passion for cycling. His father, Girmay Hailu, was a carpenter, and Biniam grew up watching the Tour de France on television with him. He began cycling at a young age, winning his first mountain bike competition at 12, which sparked his interest in pursuing the sport professionally.
Rise to Prominence
Girmay's professional career began in earnest when he joined the World Cycling Centre in Switzerland in 2018. His talent quickly became evident as he won multiple junior championships in Africa and made history by becoming the first cyclist born in the 2000s to win a professional race in 2019. His performances caught the attention of major teams, leading to his debut in professional cycling.
Playing Style and Technique
Biniam Girmay is known for his versatility as a rider, excelling as a classics specialist, sprinter, and puncheur. His ability to perform well in both flat and hilly terrains makes him a formidable competitor. His sprinting capabilities were showcased during his victories, where he demonstrated tactical acumen and explosive speed, particularly in bunch sprints.
Defining Moments and Achievements
Girmay's career reached a significant milestone in 2022 when he won a stage at the Giro d'Italia, making him the first black African cyclist to achieve this feat. He further solidified his status by winning multiple stages at the 2024 Tour de France, where he also claimed the Green Jersey, becoming the first African to do so. These accomplishments have made him a trailblazer in the sport.
Rivalries and Era Context
As a rising star in road cycling, Girmay competes against some of the best cyclists in the world, including established names like Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert. His performances have placed him in direct competition with these elite riders, particularly during major races, where he has often finished in close contention with them.
Legacy and Impact
Biniam Girmay's achievements have not only elevated his own status but have also inspired a new generation of cyclists in Africa. His historic wins have brought attention to Eritrean cycling and have encouraged greater participation in the sport among young athletes from the region.
Stats in detail
Grand Tours
Biniam Girmay has made a significant impact in Grand Tours, with notable stage wins.
| Giro d'Italia | 1 stage win |
| Tour de France | 3 stage wins |
Classics
Girmay has excelled in classic races, marking his name in cycling history.
| Gent-Wevelgem | 1 win |
| Other Classics | Multiple top finishes |
Professional Teams
Throughout his career, Girmay has competed with several professional teams.
| Nippo-Delko-One Provence | 2020-2021 |
| Intermarché-Wanty-Gobert Matériaux | 2021-2025 |
| NSN Cycling Team | 2026-present |
World Championships
Girmay has represented Eritrea at the World Championships with notable success.
| Under-23 Road Race | 1 silver medal |
Career timeline
2018Joined World Cycling Centre and began professional training.
2019Won his first professional race at La Tropicale Amissa Bongo.
2021Signed with Intermarché-Wanty-Gobert Matériaux.
2022Won a stage at the Giro d'Italia, becoming the first black African to do so.
2024Won the Green Jersey at the Tour de France.
2026Signed a three-year contract with NSN Cycling Team.
Biniam Girmay career moments
- January 1: Biniam signed a three-year contract with NSN Cycling Team, moving from Intermarché-Wanty.
- March 27: In Gent-Wevelgem, Biniam was part of the winning breakaway, which also included Christophe Laporte, Jasper Stu
- September 24: He finished second in the under-23 road race at the UCI Road World Championships, becoming the first black Afr
Latest Girmay News
All 40 stories →
Cycling · Player Focus
Biniam Girmay reflects on sprint train struggles after race
Cycling · Player Focus
Biniam Girmay misses yellow jersey but claims white in Tour de France
Cycling · Club News
Biniam Girmay joins Tour de France celebration of African youth talent
Cycling · Club News
Biniam Girmay's Tour de France Quest for Stages Gains Support from Jake Stewart
Cycling · Club News
Biniam Girmay Faces Backlash for Sprint Intimidation at Tour de France
Frequently asked
What is Biniam Girmay's net worth?
Biniam Girmay's estimated net worth is around €2-3 million.
How tall is Biniam Girmay?
Biniam Girmay is 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in) tall.
How old is Biniam Girmay?
Biniam Girmay was born on 2 April 2000, making him 26 years old.
Is Biniam Girmay retired or still active?
Biniam Girmay is currently an active professional cyclist.
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