In the spotlight
Raymond Poulidor
Raymond Poulidor, whose full name was Raymond Poulidor Noël, was born on 15 April 1936 in Masbaraud-Mérignat, in the Creuse department of France. He grew up in a modest rural family, where working the land shaped everyday life. He discovered cycling at a very young age, first as a way to get around and later as a passion that would stay with him throughout his life. His quiet but determined nature soon became one of the defining features of his sporting identity.
He began racing as an amateur in regional events across the Limousin, where his consistency and fighting spirit quickly drew attention. In 1960, he turned professional with the Mercier team, led by the renowned Antonin Magne. From his first seasons, he established himself as a l…