George Hincapie

Georges.Hincapie TDF 2004

Hincapie and armstrong (cropped)

Hincapie

George Hincapie - Tour Of California Prologue 2008

MaillotUSA

George Hincapie (born June 29, 1973) is a retired American professional road bicycle racer, who competed as a professional from 1994 to 2012. Hincapie was a key domestique of Lance Armstrong, and was part of all seven of Armstrong's Tour de France victories. Hincapie is one of the most recognized American cyclists, with a career that spanned over two decades. He is known for his strength in the Classics and for being one of the most loyal and capable teammates in the peloton.

Early Life and Career

George Hincapie was born in Queens, New York, to Colombian parents. He began his cycling career at a young age, showing promise in both the junior and under-23 categories. Hincapie turned professional in 1994 with the Motorola team. His early career was marked by rapid development and a focus on the Spring Classics, races that suited his strong build and endurance.

Professional Career

Throughout his professional career, Hincapie was known for his versatility, competing in both the classics and as a key support rider in Grand Tours. He won several important races, including Gent-Wevelgem in 2001, and stages in the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España. Hincapie's ability to perform over a variety of terrain made him an invaluable teammate.

Hincapie's most notable role was as a domestique for Lance Armstrong during the Tour de France. His work was critical in controlling the peloton, protecting Armstrong, and setting him up for key stage wins. Hincapie's loyalty and work ethic were widely recognized, making him one of the most respected riders in the peloton.

Post-Racing Career

After retiring from professional cycling, Hincapie remained active in the sport. He has been involved in various cycling-related businesses, including Hincapie Sportswear, a cycling apparel company, and has participated in charity events and cycling tours. Hincapie has also been a commentator and analyst for cycling events, sharing his deep knowledge of the sport with fans.

Controversy

In 2012, as part of the USADA investigation into doping in cycling, Hincapie admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs during his career. He stated that he had taken these substances to compete on equal footing in what he described as an era of widespread doping in professional cycling. Hincapie's admission was part of a larger narrative that led to Lance Armstrong being stripped of his Tour de France titles.

Legacy

Despite the controversy surrounding doping, Hincapie is remembered for his contributions to cycling, both as a competitor and as a teammate. His longevity in the sport, combined with his achievements in the Classics and his role in one of the most successful Tour de France teams, cement his place in cycling history.