Eddy Merckx – Five-Times Winner

Dubbed "The Cannibal" for his unrelenting nature to win everything in sight, Merckx's passion for racing was built on a love for cycling. "It's beautiful to ride the bike. It's freedom. It's like flying," Merckx mentions. He believes that a champion must have 'killer instinct,' not being satisfied with just a single success.

Bernard Hinault – Five Times Winner

"The race is won with the head, not just the legs," says Hinault, nicknamed 'The Badger' for his aggressive, fight-to-the-finish spirit. For Hinault, the key was to never lose morale, regardless of how adverse the situation, as he believed that in the Tour, everything can change in an instant.

Miguel Indurain – Five-Times Winner

Indurain’s serene demeanour earned him the title of 'Big Mig'. "The physical is vital, but without mental strength, you can't win the Tour," shares Indurain. He underscores the importance of maintaining mental clarity, eliminating negative thoughts, and always focusing on the road ahead.

Chris Froome – Four-Times Winner

Froome shares, "Winning means being prepared for every eventuality." He emphasizes training hard, the significance of team roles, proper nutrition, and of course, maintaining peak physical condition. Froome’s meticulousness revolved around an "all-round preparedness" strategy.

Conclusion

While the champions all have their unique perspectives, there’s a common thread emphasizing physical prowess, mental tenacity, strategic thinking, and an insatiable will to win. These insights remind us that the Tour De France, in essence, is more than just a bike race - it's a grand narrative of human perseverance and glory.