Egan Bernal is one of the brightest stars in modern cycling — a Colombian professional road racer known for his climbing brilliance, grit, and resilience. From the high mountains of Zipaquirá to the victory podiums of Europe, Bernal has become a symbol of Colombia’s passion for cycling and a role model for athletes worldwide. Representing INEOS Grenadiers, he continues to inspire fans with his courage, determination, and comeback spirit.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Egan Arley Bernal Gómez |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 13, 1997 |
| Place of Birth | Zipaquirá, Cundinamarca, Colombia |
| Nationality | Colombian |
| Profession | Professional Road Racing Cyclist |
| Current Team | INEOS Grenadiers |
| Rider Type | Climber / Stage Racer |
| Height | 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in) |
| Weight | 60 kg (132 lbs) |
| Major Wins | Tour de France (2019), Giro d’Italia (2021) |
| Years Active | 2016 – Present |
Introduction
Born in the mountains of Zipaquirá, Colombia, Egan Bernal is a prodigy who has conquered the highest peaks in professional cycling. Known for his fearless climbing and exceptional endurance, he became the first Latin American to win the Tour de France in 2019 and later triumphed in the Giro d’Italia in 2021. His achievements have solidified his place as one of Colombia’s most celebrated athletes and a global ambassador for the sport.
Early Life and Background
Egan Bernal was born on January 13, 1997, in the small Colombian town of Zipaquirá, located high in the Andes mountains. Growing up surrounded by steep climbs, Egan developed a natural affinity for endurance sports. His father was an avid cyclist, and his mother worked hard to support his early ambitions, encouraging him to pursue the sport from a young age.
Unlike many athletes who begin on flat roads, Egan’s playground was the high altitude of Colombia’s hills. The thin air and steep terrain forged his remarkable stamina and climbing ability. This early environment would later become his greatest asset on the international racing stage.
Education and Early Passion for Cycling
During his school years, Egan Bernal split his time between studies and intense cycling training. Initially drawn to mountain biking, he displayed raw talent that quickly caught the attention of local coaches. His dedication, even as a teenager, was extraordinary — waking before sunrise to train before class and balancing academics with his athletic goals.
He began competing in Colombian junior championships, where his technical skills and power on climbs set him apart. After achieving national success, Egan decided to focus fully on cycling, a choice that would soon pay off in ways few could imagine.
Rise Through Amateur Cycling
Before turning professional, Egan Bernal built his reputation in the amateur European circuit. In 2016, he joined the Italian team Androni Giocattoli–Sidermec, where he gained valuable experience racing in Europe’s demanding competitions. His exceptional climbing and consistency earned him early victories in races like the Tour de l’Avenir, which has historically predicted future Tour de France champions.
His rapid rise through the ranks attracted the attention of major WorldTour teams, signaling that a new Colombian star was about to emerge on the world stage.
Professional Career Beginnings
In 2018, Egan Bernal signed with Team Sky, later renamed INEOS Grenadiers, marking his entry into elite professional cycling. Even in his first season, he showcased exceptional potential by winning the Tour of California, becoming one of the youngest riders to achieve that feat.
His debut at the Tour de France that same year was filled with promise — his fearless descending and climbing made him a crucial support rider for leaders like Chris Froome and Geraint Thomas. It was clear that Bernal was destined for greatness.
Major Achievements and Career Highlights
Egan Bernal’s defining moment came in 2019 when, at just 22 years old, he won the Tour de France, becoming the first Colombian and youngest champion in over a century. His calm confidence, strategic racing, and unmatched mountain strength captivated fans around the world.
Two years later, he added another Grand Tour title to his name by winning the Giro d’Italia (2021), dominating the race from start to finish. These victories established him as one of the most talented climbers and stage racers of his generation. Despite facing setbacks, including a life-threatening crash in 2022, Bernal’s comeback has shown his unmatched mental resilience and dedication to the sport.
Teams and Transfers
Throughout his professional journey, Egan Bernal has remained loyal to INEOS Grenadiers, formerly Team Sky, where he signed in 2018. Under the team’s guidance, he developed into a world-class leader and consistent contender for Grand Tour victories.
His connection with the team’s Colombian training base and access to high-altitude preparation programs perfectly complemented his natural strengths. Even after recovering from serious injury, INEOS has continued to support Bernal’s career, reflecting their long-term belief in his potential.
Racing Style and Strengths
Egan Bernal is renowned for his exceptional climbing ability, aerobic endurance, and mental fortitude. His racing style is characterized by patience and timing — waiting for the perfect moment to attack on climbs. His light frame and ability to maintain high power output at altitude give him a distinct advantage on mountainous stages.
Unlike many pure climbers, Bernal has also developed into a competent time trialist, allowing him to compete effectively across all types of terrain. His calm under pressure and strategic intelligence make him one of the most respected tacticians in the peloton.
Age, Height, and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Egan Bernal is 28 years old. Standing at 1.75 meters (5 ft 9 in) and weighing about 60 kilograms (132 lbs), his physique is ideally suited for endurance and climbing. His lean build, quiet focus, and composed demeanor embody the discipline of a champion cyclist.
Even after recovering from major injuries, Bernal’s physical condition and perseverance have made his return one of the most inspiring stories in modern sports.
Personal Life and Relationships
Outside of racing, Egan Bernal leads a balanced and grounded life. He maintains close ties with his family in Zipaquirá, crediting them for his motivation and values. He has publicly shared gratitude toward his parents for supporting his journey from local races to global success.
Egan is also known for his relationship with Maria Fernanda Motas, often seen accompanying him during major events. Together, they share a love of travel and outdoor life. Despite fame, Bernal remains humble, preferring simplicity and authenticity over the spotlight.
Notable Rivalries and Friendships
Egan Bernal has developed friendly rivalries with other top riders such as Tadej Pogačar, Primož Roglič, and Jonas Vingegaard. His head-to-head battles with these competitors have produced some of the most thrilling Grand Tour moments in recent years.
Within his team, he shares strong friendships with fellow INEOS riders like Geraint Thomas and Filippo Ganna, built on mutual respect and teamwork. Known for his sportsmanship, Bernal is admired for his composure both in victory and defeat.
Impact on Colombian Cycling
Egan Bernal’s success has had a profound impact on Colombian cycling. His Tour de France victory in 2019 ignited national pride, inspiring countless young Colombians to pursue the sport. He became a national hero, showing that riders from high-altitude towns could compete — and win — against the best in the world.
His achievements have strengthened Colombia’s position as a cycling powerhouse, following in the footsteps of legends like Nairo Quintana and Rigoberto Urán. Bernal’s influence extends beyond sport — he symbolizes hope, perseverance, and the power of dreams.
Future Goals and Legacy
After overcoming life-threatening injuries in 2022, Egan Bernal’s return to competitive form has been nothing short of remarkable. Looking ahead, he aims to reclaim Grand Tour podiums and continue contributing to INEOS Grenadiers’ dominance in professional cycling.
Beyond results, Bernal’s legacy lies in his courage and resilience. He has proven that champions are defined not only by victories but also by their ability to rise after setbacks. For Colombia and the world, Egan remains a living testament to the strength of willpower and passion for the sport.
FAQs
Who is Egan Bernal?
Egan Bernal is a Colombian professional cyclist best known for winning the Tour de France in 2019 and Giro d’Italia in 2021.
What team does Egan Bernal ride for?
He currently rides for INEOS Grenadiers, one of the top teams in professional cycling.
What are Egan Bernal’s biggest achievements?
He is the first Latin American to win the Tour de France and a Giro d’Italia champion.
Has Egan Bernal recovered from his crash?
Yes. After a severe accident in 2022, he made a successful comeback to racing.
What makes Egan Bernal special as a cyclist?
His combination of climbing strength, endurance, and mental resilience makes him one of the most complete riders in the sport.
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