Slaying the Badger

"Slaying the Badger" chronicles the rivalry between cyclists Bernard Hinault and Greg LeMond during the 1985 and 1986 Tour de France races. The book focuses on their complex relationship as teammates on the La Vie Claire team, where Hinault was the established champion and LeMond the rising American star. Richard Moore reconstructs the events through interviews with both cyclists, team members, and other key figures from professional cycling's most dramatic period. The narrative examines the politics, personalities, and power dynamics within the sport during the mid-1980s, when European cycling faced its first serious challenge from an American competitor. The book details the physical and psychological battles that played out both on and off the racing course, set against the backdrop of cycling's most prestigious event. Through extensive research and firsthand accounts, Moore presents the cultural clash between European cycling traditions and American ambition. The story transcends sports biography to become an examination of loyalty, ambition, and the complex nature of mentor-protégé relationships. It captures a pivotal moment in cycling history when the sport's old guard confronted inevitable change.

Readers describe this as a detailed account of the 1986 Tour de France rivalry between Greg LeMond and Bernard Hinault. Many note the book provides context beyond just the race itself, examining team dynamics, cycling culture, and European sports politics of the era. Positive reviews focus on: - Deep research and first-hand interviews - Clear explanation of cycling tactics and team strategy - Balanced portrayal of both cyclists - Cultural insights into French cycling Common criticisms: - Repetitive passages - Too much background information before getting to 1986 - Some timeline jumps that can confuse readers Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (300+ ratings) Reader quote: "Moore manages to maintain tension throughout, even though we know the outcome" - Goodreads reviewer Several cycling enthusiasts note the book helped them understand the sport's complex team dynamics and unwritten rules.

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🚲 The book details one of cycling's greatest rivalries between teammates Bernard Hinault and Greg LeMond during the 1986 Tour de France, where LeMond became the first American to win the race. 🏆 Author Richard Moore interviewed over 50 people connected to the story, including both Hinault and LeMond, providing unprecedented insight into the team dynamics and personal conflicts. 🎬 The book was adapted into an Emmy-nominated documentary film in 2014, produced by ESPN as part of their "30 for 30" series. 🇫🇷 Bernard Hinault, nicknamed "The Badger" for his aggressive riding style and tenacity, had won the Tour de France five times before the events chronicled in this book. 🤝 Despite being on the same team (La Vie Claire), Hinault and LeMond's relationship was complicated by a broken promise - Hinault had pledged to help LeMond win in 1986 after LeMond helped him win in 1985.