Road Bike Racing - Quote contest

50 bazillion upgrade points to whoever names the source of this quote, and what it is in reference to:

"The French have long since given up all illusion. It's been many years since the French riders have been able to hold their own in this great French race. The last French victory was 20 years ago, but that isn't stopping anybody from cheering the national heroes."

Paul Sherwen.

Was it Paul Sherwen in reference to Thomas Voeckler in the 2004 TdF?

Very reasonable guesses, but not correct.

Hint: It does NOT refer to the Tour de France.

the Badger?

the Badger?

The quote was not from the Badger, although it was said around the beginning of his professional career. It is readily available today though.

Well, it's in reference to Paris-Roubaix, as the French had a dry spell from 1957-1980. I guess that would put the quote date in 1976 or so...

I'll throw my quote guess to Merckx.

Well, it's in reference to Paris-Roubaix, as the French had a dry spell from 1957-1980. I guess that would put the quote date in 1976 or so...

I'll throw my quote guess to Merckx.

You're half right - the quote is in reference to the 1976 Paris-Roubaix, but Merckx is not the origin.
25 bazillion upgrade points to you! What the heck, here's another 10 bazillion for getting the date right! :beer:

Sweet. I'm a Cat 1 now.

I'm gonna go shave my legs. Botto, prepare your mailbox at the Met.

Jorgen Leth?

Jorgen Leth?

Ding ding ding! The puzzle is complete! :beer: It's from A Sunday in Hell. I was watching it this weekend, and struck by how the comment could apply to the recent Tours de France as well as Paris-Roubaix in the mid 70's. That's not to bash French riders, it's just an interesting parallel.

Not that I'm going to side with men that kiss each other as a greeting, but the French implemented quite the doping controls after the Festina affair, while the rest of the world took their sweet time.
They will have champions again, their country is too involved in the sport not too.