André Greipel leaves a legacy Down Under
German cycling powerhouse André Greipel has sprinted across the finish line for the last time as he retires from a 17-year professional cycling career.
Greipel cemented himself as one of the greatest sprinters of all time, having raced in 19 Grand Tours and claimed 22 stage wins: 11 at the Tour de France, seven at the Giro d'Italia and four at the Vuelta a España. He leaves the world stage with 158 professional wins to his name.
The 39-year-old raced at the Santos Tour Down Under nine times from 2008 to 2020, thrilling fans with his explosive sprint finishes.
He retires as reigning record holder for most stage wins at the event – 18 – followed by Australian legend Robbie McEwen with 12.
Greipel dominated at the Santos Tour Down Under from his debut as a 25-year-old in 2008. He took general classification honours in that first appearance, plus victory at the Classic and four stage wins.
In 2010 Greipel won three stages and again claimed overall victory. His final appearance at the Santos Tour Down Under was in 2020 with Israel Start-Up Nation.
When reflecting on his time racing in South Australia, André said,
“The Tour Down Under was always a race I like to start with each season. The terrain around Adelaide suited me really well and it is one of the best areas for training.”
“That race had a big impact in my career and without that race I wouldn’t have had the same career.”
Santos Tour Down Under Race Director Stuart O’Grady said Greipel was popular athlete who made a huge contribution to cycling.
“I had the pleasure of racing against André for 9 years. André was the definition of a Professional athlete. His work ethic was incredible and he always maintained a cool, calm temperament throughout his stellar career.”
“He used to tell me that he genuinely loved his time training and racing around the streets of Adelaide.”
“His 18 Stage wins will take a lot to be beaten, but it’s André as a person that was the real Champion. He always made time for the fans and always managed a smile even after the hottest and hardest stages.”
“I wish him all the best on the next stage of his life which I am sure he will master, just as he did his skill of Sprinting. Good Luck André and you'll always welcome back to SA anytime.”
Greipel’s phenomenal career has left a special mark on the Australian fans who saw him in action on South Australian roads.
Let’s take a look back at every single André Greipel win at the Santos Tour Down Under:
