Josefine Bagger Sommerlund
Tour de France 1999 – the year he both won a stage and became Belgian champion.
The former Tour de France stage winner and Belgian national champion is remembered for his relentless fighting spirit and a late, yet powerful career.
1. Late Start to His Career
Ludo Dierckxsens only turned professional at the age of 30 in 1994 – a rare feat in modern cycling.
2. Tour de France Victory
In 1999, he claimed an impressive stage win in the Tour de France and also secured the Belgian national championship title that same year.
3. Excluded from the Tour
Following his stage victory, he was sent home for failing to inform his team about taking medication – even though it wasn’t a doping violation.
4. Former Car Mechanic
Before his cycling career, he worked as a car mechanic – an unusual path to professional sports.
5. Fan Favorite
His raw style, honesty, and tireless effort made him one of the peloton’s most beloved riders.
6. Long-Lasting Career
Despite his late start, he remained competitive for over a decade, racing professionally almost until the age of 40.