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Episode details

World Service,19 Jul 2014,9 mins

Eddy Merckx: The Fall of 'The Cannibal'

Sporting Witness

Available for over a year

In 1975, the great Belgian cyclist Eddy Merckx lost the Tour de France after being punched by a spectator during a mountain stage. The incident marked the start of the decline of a rider so dominant he was nicknamed "The Cannibal". British cyclist Barry Hoban recalls the punch and shares his personal memories of racing with Merckx. (Photo: Eddy Merckx. Credit: AFP/Getty Images)

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