Austria is a land of cycling champions. With its long history, diverse terrain, and strong cycling culture, Austria has been the birthplace of some of the world’s most renowned cyclists.
From Ferdinand Kübler to Graziano Battistini, many of the world’s best have come from Austria. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best cycling players in Austria and the contributions they have made to the sport.
From world champions to Olympic gold medalists, we will profile some of the most successful and accomplished cyclists in the country.
1. Felix Großschartner
Felix Großschartner is a professional cyclist from Austria. He is currently a member of the UCI WorldTeam UAE Team Emirates. Großschartner started his professional career in 2014, when he signed with the UCI Continental team Team Felbermayr-Simplon Wels.
Since then, he has had a successful career, achieving many important wins and placements, including a stage victory at the 2019 Tour de France. Additionally, he has competed in multiple Grand Tours, including the Tour de France, Vuelta a España, and Giro d’Italia.
Großschartner has also participated in many one-day races, such as the 2019 Paris-Roubaix and the 2019 Tour of Flanders. In 2020, Großschartner joined the UCI WorldTeam UAE Team Emirates, where he is currently competing.
He has been a valuable asset to the team, consistently achieving good results. Overall, Felix Großschartner is a successful and accomplished cyclist who is a great asset to the UAE Team Emirates.
2. Matthias Brändle
Matthias Brändle is a highly accomplished road bicycle racer from Austria. He has achieved a great deal of success in his career, including seven Austrian National Time Trial Championships and one Austrian National Road Race Championship.
Brändle has been an elite rider for many years, and his success is a testament to his commitment and dedication to the sport. Brändle has been a prominent figure in the cycling world, and he has been a regular competitor in major events such as the Tour de France.
He is renowned for his excellent time trial performances, and his ability to maintain a consistent pace over long distances. His victories in the Austrian National Time Trial Championships have been well deserved, as he has been able to consistently outpace his opponents.
Brändle’s success in the Austrian National Road Race Championships was especially impressive. He was able to overcome a field of top-class riders, and his victory was a great accomplishment for him and his country.
His win was also a great boost for the Austrian cycling community, as it showed that the country has a great potential for producing world-class riders.
Overall, Matthias Brändle is an incredible athlete and a great example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication. He has been a leader in the Austrian cycling scene, and he continues to inspire athletes around the world.
His accomplishments are a testament to his talent and his commitment to excellence.
3. Marco Haller
Marco Haller is an Austrian professional road bicycling racer who is currently riding for UCI World Bora–Hansgrohe.
He has been riding professionally for over a decade, and in that time, he has competed in various UCI World Tour races, such as the Tour de France and the Giro d’Italia. Haller has also won stages in the Vuelta a España and the Tour of California.
He is considered to be one of the best pure climbers in the peloton, and he has a reputation for being a strong team leader. His current team, Bora–Hansgrohe, is a powerhouse in the world of professional cycling, and they have had a lot of success in the Grand Tours.
With Haller on board, the team is looking to continue their streak of success and bring home more victories in the future.
4. Max Bulla
Max Bulla was an Austrian professional road bicycle racer who achieved great success in the 1931 Tour de France. He won three stages of the race, including one that earned him the coveted yellow jersey.
Bulla finished the Tour de France in 15th place and was also the winner of the classification for independent riders. This classification recognizes the achievements of those who are not part of a team and is a particularly impressive accomplishment for Bulla.
It shows that he was able to achieve success despite having limited resources and support. His performance in the 1931 Tour de France was an impressive feat and a testament to his skill and determination as a professional cyclist.
5. Stefan Denifl
Stefan Denifl is a former professional cyclist from Austria. He began his professional career in 2006 and was a professional cyclist until 2018. Throughout his career, he was a member of seven different professional cycling teams.
During his time as a professional cyclist, he competed in several events, including the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Vuelta a España. His best results came in 2008 when he won the Tour of Austria and the Tour of Slovenia.
He also placed second in the Tour of Austria in 2010 and finished third in the Tour of Utah in 2012.
He was also successful in time trials, winning the Austrian National Championships and the World University Championships. Denifl also competed in mountain biking events, including the World Championships in 2008 and 2010.
In addition to his success in professional cycling, Denifl has worked as a cycling coach, helping to guide and motivate younger riders. Overall, Stefan Denifl had a successful career as a professional cyclist.
During his time as a professional cyclist, he competed in a variety of events and achieved impressive results. He has since retired from professional cycling, but continues to stay involved in the sport through his work as a cycling coach.
6. Michael Gogl
Michael Gogl is a professional cyclist from Austria who currently competes for UCI ProTeam Alpecin–Deceuninck. He has had the privilege of being included in the start list for some of the biggest cycling events in the world.
In 2016, Gogl was named in the startlist for the Vuelta a España, one of the three Grand Tours of cycling. One year later, he was included in the startlist for the Tour de France, the most prestigious and well-known of the Grand Tours.
Most recently, in May 2019, Gogl was included in the startlist for the Giro d’Italia, the second of the Grand Tours. His inclusion in the startlist for all three Grand Tours is a testament to the hard work and dedication he has put in to become an elite cyclist.
7. Gregor Mühlberger
Gregor Mühlberger is a professional cyclist from Austria. He is currently part of the UCI World Movistar Team, one of the most prestigious teams in the world.
Mühlberger has had a successful career so far, having achieved several wins and podiums in prestigious races such as the Tour of Austria, the Tour de Suisse, and the Tour of Turkey. He is also a two-time Austrian National Road Race champion.
As a member of the Movistar Team, Mühlberger has been able to compete at the highest level of the sport and has had the opportunity to work with some of the best cyclists in the world.
He is an important part of the team and is always pushing himself to do his best and be a strong contributor to the team.
8. Lukas Pöstlberger
Lukas Pöstlberger is an Austrian professional cyclist, who currently races for the UCI WorldTeam Team Jayco–AlUla.
He began his professional cycling career in 2012, and in that same year, he achieved a significant milestone in his career by winning the Austrian National Road Race Championships.
This success was a major breakthrough for Pöstlberger, and it highlighted his potential to become a top-level cyclist. Since then, he has gone on to compete in several prestigious races, including the Tour de France, where he achieved his first stage victory in 2017.
He is considered to be one of the most promising cyclists in Austria, and his hard work and dedication have paid off with his continued success on the world cycling stage.
9. Riccardo Zoidl
Riccardo Zoidl is an Austrian professional cyclist who competes in road cycling events. He currently rides for UCI Continental team Team Felbermayr–Simplon Wels. The UCI Continental teams are a step below the more competitive UCI World Tour teams.
Riccardo Zoidl has achieved success in the European racing circuit, having won the overall title of the Tour of Austria in 2016 and 2017. He has also competed in the Tour of Slovenia, the Tour of Croatia, and the Tour of Wallonie, among many other races.
His team, Team Felbermayr–Simplon Wels, is a professional cycling team based in Austria. They compete in major UCI Continental races such as the Tour of Austria, the Tour of Croatia, and the Tour of Wallonie.
The team has achieved success in these events, with Riccardo Zoidl winning the overall title of the Tour of Austria in 2016 and 2017. Riccardo Zoidl is a talented and dedicated cyclist who is making a name for himself in the professional cycling world.
10. Gerrit Glomser
Gerrit Glomser is a former Austrian racing cyclist who is now working as a directeur sportif for the UCI Continental team Tirol KTM Cycling Team.
He began his professional cycling career in 1998 and went on to achieve great success in 2005 when he won the Austrian National Road Race Championships.
Glomser had a successful cycling career, competing in many races while also participating in the Tour de France in 2005 and 2007. After retiring from professional cycling, he became a directeur sportif for the Tirol KTM Cycling Team.
His role as a directeur sportif has seen him help the team to great success, having coached riders to many victories in UCI Continental races.
In addition to his duties as a directeur sportif, Glomser also acts as a mentor to young and aspiring cyclists, offering them advice and guidance on how to make it in the competitive world of professional cycling.
11. René Haselbacher
René Haselbacher is a former professional road bicycle racer from Austria. He had a long and successful career, competing for two major teams – Gerolsteiner and Astana.
Throughout his career, he demonstrated his strength and skill in both road racing and time trials, making him a formidable opponent. René Haselbacher rose to fame in 2002 when he won the Austrian National Road Race Championships.
His victory made him an instant celebrity in his native Austria, and he was celebrated for his success throughout the cycling community. He proved his worth in the sport, and his win was a testament to his dedication and hard work.
René Haselbacher’s success and accomplishments in the cycling world are still remembered today. He is an inspiration to all cyclists, young and old, and his legacy lives on in his native country of Austria.
He will always be remembered as one of the greatest cyclists of his era.
12. Peter Luttenberger
Peter Luttenberger is a prominent figure in the cycling world, having retired as a professional road bicycle racer from Austria. He had his greatest success in the 1996 Tour de France, where he placed fifth in the General Classification.
Despite his impressive showing that year, he was never able to replicate the same level of success in the Tour de France again, with his best result in later years being 13th place in 1997 and 2003. Before his career in cycling, Luttenberger was born in Bad Radkersburg, Austria.
He was likely driven to succeed in the sport by his experiences growing up in the area. While living in Bad Radkersburg, he was able to hone his skills and develop into the accomplished cyclist he is now remembered for.
Peter Luttenberger is remembered for his outstanding performance in the 1996 Tour de France. Despite not being able to live up to that level of success again, he still remains an important figure in the cycling world and a source of inspiration for aspiring cyclists.
13. Peter Wrolich
Peter Wrolich is a retired Austrian professional road bicycle racer who was well-known for his sprinting ability. Throughout his career, he achieved great success, highlighted by his top 10 finish in the final stage of the 2006 Tour de France.
This impressive result saw him accumulate a total of 65 points in the competition. During his career, Wrolich competed in many international events, gaining recognition for his speed and endurance.
He was part of the Gerolsteiner team and often worked in tandem with them to achieve success. He was also a part of Team Milram, and later the Team NetApp, where he continued to excel in sprints and long-distance events.
Peter Wrolich was part of the pro-tour circuit for many years and was consistently one of the top performers. His experience and knowledge of the sport were invaluable to his team, and his sprinting abilities pushed them to succeed.
He was part of many memorable moments in the sport, including his top-10 finish in the 2006 Tour de France. This result secured him 65 points, cementing his legacy as one of the greats of the sport. This remarkable career was cut short when Peter Wrolich retired in 2013.
He had been a professional cyclist for 17 years, and in that time had achieved great success. He was a respected member of the community, and his Sprinting abilities and knowledge of the sport will be remembered for many years to come.
14. Kurt Postl
Kurt Postl was an Austrian cyclist who made his mark on the Olympic stage. He competed in two events at the 1960 Summer Olympics, one of which was the individual road race. This event saw riders competing to be the fastest over a certain distance.
Post put in a great effort in this race, although the results are not known. Postl also competed in the team time trial event. This event saw teams of four cyclists competing in a race against the clock.
Postl was part of a four-man team that represented Austria in this event, and although the results are also not known, it is clear that Postl was a major contributor to the team’s performance.
Postl’s Olympic career may have been a short one, but it was certainly one that was filled with great effort and dedication.
15. Fritz Inthaler
Fritz Inthaler was an Austrian cyclist who had the opportunity to participate in the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome. He competed in the individual road race and team time trial events in the games.
Fritz was not alone in his cycling accomplishments as his brother Franz Inthaler also took part in the sport. Franz’s successes paved the way for Fritz to follow in his footsteps and compete in the Olympics.
Throughout their athletic careers, the two brothers enjoyed friendly competition with each other and inspired each other to reach their goals. The Inthaler brothers served as an example of the power of teamwork and the strength of brotherly bonds.
16. Erich Welt
Erich Welt was a professional cyclist from Austria. He was an accomplished rider who competed in the 1948 Summer Olympics in two different events, the sprint and the tandem. Welt performed well in both events, showing an impressive skill set as a cyclist.
He was also a member of the Austrian cycling team in the years leading up to the Olympics, helping to bring Austria to the forefront of international cycling. Welt was born in Vienna in 1924 and began his cycling career at a young age.
He became a member of the Austrian cycling team in 1945 and went on to compete in several events across Europe.
He won several races in Austria and Germany during this time and was eventually chosen to represent Austria in the 1948 Summer Olympics. At the Olympics, Welt competed in the sprint and tandem events.
In the sprint, he finished in seventh place, and in the tandem event, he and his partner Josef Eller finished in fourth place.
This was a remarkable achievement for Welt, and he was the first person from Austria to ever win an Olympic medal in cycling. After the Olympics, Welt continued to compete in cycling events and represented Austria in several international competitions.
He retired from professional cycling in 1953 and went on to become a successful businessman in Austria. Erich Welt has gone down in history as one of the greatest Austrian cyclists of all time.
17. Kurt Schmied
Kurt Schmied is a former professional cyclist from Austria. He had a successful career and achieved great success in the sport. He competed in the team pursuit event at the 1988 Summer Olympics, representing his country.
During the event, Kurt and his team performed exceptionally well and he was able to gain a place on the podium. His performance at the Olympics was a great success and one of his most memorable moments in his career.
Kurt Schmied was an incredible athlete with a passion for cycling. He had an eye for detail and was very dedicated to improving his skills and technique. He worked hard and trained diligently to get into the best shape possible.
His dedication paid off and he was able to reach the heights of success in cycling. Kurt Schmied was part of a very successful Austrian cycling team. He and his teammates worked together to achieve great success.
Their camaraderie made them very successful and they were able to enjoy many victories together. His performance in the team pursuit event at the 1988 Summer Olympics was a testament to his hard work and dedication.
Kurt Schmied is a remarkable athlete who achieved great success in the sport of cycling. His commitment and dedication to the sport allowed him to reach the heights of success.
His team pursuit performance at the 1988 Summer Olympics is one of the most memorable moments in his career and is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
18. Herbert Füzi
Herbert Füzi is an Austrian former cyclist who achieved great success during his career. He competed in a number of races and was a champion of the Austrian National Road Race Championships in 1972. Herbert Füzi was born in Austria and began racing when he was a young adult.
He quickly developed a passion for cycling and pursued it as a career. He raced in a variety of competitions, including the Austrian National Road Race Championships. In 1972, Herbert Füzi won the Austrian National Road Race Championships.
This was a great accomplishment for Füzi, as he was able to beat out some of the top cyclists in the country.
He was the first Austrian cyclist to win the championship, and it was a great accomplishment for both him and the country. Herbert Füzi retired from cycling in 1973 and has since been a source of inspiration for aspiring cyclists in Austria.
His victory in the Austrian National Road Race Championships is still remembered by many as an example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication. Füzi’s legacy as a champion cyclist will live on for many years to come.
19. Georg Preidler
Georg Preidler is an Austrian cyclist who has recently been implicated in the Operation Aderlass doping scandal. The scandal involves a number of professional athletes from a variety of sports and countries who have been accused of participating in a blood doping scheme.
As a result of his involvement in the scandal, Preidler has been suspended from the sport and is currently under investigation. Operation Aderlass is a criminal investigation by the Austrian authorities which was launched in 2019 after a number of professional athletes from a variety of sports were found to have been involved with a doctor who was offering blood doping services.
The investigation has since spread to athletes from other countries, including Preidler. Preidler is a two-time Austrian National Time Trial Champion and has represented Austria at the 2012 Summer Olympics.
He has won several UCI World Tour races and was part of the Team Sunweb squad from 2016 until his suspension in 2019. The implications of Operation Aderlass on Preidler have been severe, and his suspension from the sport could last for a long time.
He could face further sanctions, such as a ban from the sport if he is found guilty of participating in the doping scheme. The doping scandal has caused a stir in the world of professional cycling, and Preidler’s suspension is just the latest in a long line of athletes who have been implicated in similar scandals.
While many athletes use performance-enhancing drugs in order to gain an advantage, the use of blood doping is strictly prohibited and considered a serious offence.
Preidler’s suspension serves as a warning to all athletes that doping will not be tolerated in the sport of cycling.
20. Gerhard Zadrobilek
Gerhard Zadrobilek was a professional road bicyclist from Austria. He is remembered as a talented cyclist who competed in many international events. Born in Vienna, Austria, in 1959, Gerhard had an aptitude for cycling from an early age.
He began training and competing in his teens, and by his twenties, he was one of the best road cyclists in the country.
He was a six-time Austrian National Champion and represented Austria in several international events including the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Vuelta a Espana. Gerhard raced for several teams over his career, including Team Telekom and Team Gerolsteiner.
He was known for his strong sprinting ability and had a penchant for winning stage races.
He achieved several podium finishes, including at the 1990 Tour de France where he finished third overall. Gerhard retired from competitive cycling in 2001 after a long and successful career.
He still remains a popular figure in cycling circles and is remembered for his dedication to the sport and his willingness to help younger riders.
21. Daniel Schorn
Daniel Schorn is an Austrian former professional road bicycle racer. He had a successful career in the sport, taking part in professional road races between 2008 and 2016.
He rode for three different teams during this time, including Elk Haus, Bora–Argon 18, and Team Felbermayr–Simplon Wels. Schorn was able to compete at a high level during this time, demonstrating his skill and ability.
He was able to make a name for himself, as well as gain recognition and respect in the cycling community. Schorn was also able to travel all around the world, competing in some of the most prestigious races. Throughout his career, Schorn was able to achieve a number of successes.
He was able to take part in the Tour de Suisse, the Tour de Romandie, the Tour of Austria, and the Tour of California.
He was also able to achieve top ten finishes in the Grazer Rad Trophy, the Tour of the Alps, and the Tour of Oman. Schorn’s career eventually came to an end in 2016 when he retired from professional cycling. He may no longer be competing, but his legacy lives on.
He is remembered for his skill, determination, and ambition. He is an example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication, and will always be remembered as one of Austria’s greatest cyclists.
22. Markus Eibegger
Markus Eibegger was a professional road bicycle racer from Austria who raced between 2007 and 2018. During his 11-year career, he achieved many successes, including winning the Austrian National Road Race Championships in 2009.
This victory was a major milestone in his career and helped to cement his place as one of the most successful Austrian cyclists of all time. Eibegger was born in Austria and began cycling at a young age, competing in regional and local events.
He eventually joined a professional cycling team and raced in a number of prestigious international events. His notable accomplishments included a podium finish at the Tour of Austria in 2008, as well as a number of top 10 finishes in various stages of the Giro d’Italia.
In 2009, Eibegger became the champion of the Austrian National Road Race Championships, a prestigious competition that is held each year.
This victory was a major milestone in his career and helped to cement his place as one of the most successful Austrian cyclists of all time. Throughout his professional career, Eibegger was a popular figure in the cycling community, and his successes were often celebrated by fans and teammates alike.
After retiring from professional cycling in 2018, he has continued to remain active in the sport and is currently a coach for the Austrian national cycling team.
He is an inspiration to many aspiring cyclists, and his legacy will remain forever in the history of Austrian cycling.
23. Adolf Schmal
Felix Adolf Schmal was an Austrian athlete who competed in two very different sports. He was born in Dortmund, Germany, in the late 1800s and moved to Austria at a young age.
He gained prominence in his adopted country as a fencer and racing cyclist, and his skill in both disciplines led him to be chosen to represent Austria at the 1896 Summer Olympics in Athens. During the Olympics, he competed in fencing and cycling events but did not win a medal.
He remained an active athlete throughout his life, but eventually died in Salzburg, Austria, at an unspecified date. Schmal’s sporting achievements have been remembered over the years, and he is now celebrated as one of Austria’s most talented athletes of the time.
24. Robert Rammer
Robert Rammer was a professional Austrian road racing cyclist who was born in Vienna. He was selected to compete in the 1912 Summer Olympics in the cycling event. As part of the Austrian cycling team, Rammer was part of the team that placed seventh in the team time trial event.
Individually, he placed 23rd in the individual time trial competition. Rammer was a dedicated athlete who worked hard to compete at the Olympic level. He was part of a larger team and his individual contributions helped the Austrian team achieve a successful result.
His hard work and commitment to his sport was an inspiration to those around him. He was a great example of what can be achieved when you put in the effort and determination to reach a goal.
25. Daniel Auer
Daniel Auer is a former professional cyclist who hails from Austria. He began his professional career in 2013 and raced for ten years, retiring in 2023.
During the course of his career, he achieved various successes, including podium finishes and other distinctions. Auer was very dedicated to the sport. On his own time, he trained intensely and pushed himself to be the best he could be.
He strived to improve continuously and his hard work paid off as he achieved success in races. He was a highly respected cyclist and an inspiration to other riders. Despite all of his successes, Auer was forced to retire early due to an injury.
After suffering a serious incident while racing, he was forced to quit the sport and focus on his recovery. While he is no longer racing professionally, his legacy will live on in the cycling community.
He was an exceptional athlete who inspired many riders during his time in the sport.
26. Patrick Gamper
Patrick Gamper is an Austrian professional cyclist who currently competes for UCI World Bora–Hansgrohe. He has been cycling professionally since 2015, and in October 2020 he was included in the startlist for the 2020 Giro d’Italia.
This is one of the three Grand Tours of professional cycling, and it is a major achievement for any cyclist to be included in the start list. Gamper’s inclusion in the startlist for the Giro d’Italia is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.
He has worked hard to earn the opportunity to compete in one of the most prestigious cycling events in the world. It will be exciting to see what he can accomplish as he continues to pursue his dream of becoming a top cyclist.
27. Gerhard Schönbacher
Gerhard Schönbacher is a former professional cyclist who enjoyed a successful nine-year career in the sport. He had the honour of competing at the UCI World Championships on seven occasions, although he is most widely recognized for his performances in the Tour de France.
On two separate occasions, Schönbacher finished the race in last place, making him something of an iconic figure in the cycling world. Although being last in the Tour de France is not the most desirable outcome, Schönbacher’s achievement should not be overlooked.
It requires a significant level of dedication and strength of character to compete in one of the most challenging cycling events in the world, let alone finish it.
Schönbacher was a testament to the hard work and determination required to compete at the highest level of professional cycling. In addition to his strength of character, Schönbacher was also an accomplished cyclist.
He was able to achieve success in the UCI World Championships on seven occasions, which is a feat in itself.
He was also a consistent performer throughout his nine seasons of professional cycling, a testament to his skill and dedication. Overall, Gerhard Schönbacher is a unique figure in the cycling world.
Despite finishing last in the Tour de France on two occasions, he accomplished a significant amount of success throughout his career. His skill and determination served as an example to aspiring cyclists and will continue to inspire generations to come.
28. Helmut Wechselberger
Helmut Wechselberger is an Austrian racing cyclist who achieved notable success in his career. In 1988, he won the Tour de Suisse, one of the most prestigious cycling events in the world. He also had the honor of representing his country at the 1984 Summer Olympics.
At the Olympics, Wechselberger competed in the individual road race and the team time trial events. In addition to his international accomplishments, Wechselberger also won the Austrian National Road Race Championships in 1984.
This achievement was a major milestone in his career and highlighted his skill as an athlete. Overall, Helmut Wechselberger was a successful cyclist who achieved a number of accolades throughout his career.
He had the privilege of competing at the Olympic Games and was also a champion of his home country. His successes demonstrate his dedication to the sport and his commitment to excellence.
29. Thomas Rohregger
Thomas Rohregger was a professional road bicycle racer from Austria, who competed at a professional level for nine years, from 2005 to 2013. During his career, he rode for three different teams, namely Elk Haus–Simplon, Team Milram, and RadioShack–Leopard.
Rohregger had a successful career, as he managed to win several races, including the Tour of Austria in 2008 and the Tour of Flanders U23 in 2004. He also won the Austrian National Championship in 2007.
In addition to his individual success, he was also part of several successful teams. He was part of the Elk Haus–Simplon team that won the Tour of Austria in 2005, and the RadioShack–Leopard team that won the Tour of Britain in 2010.
Rohregger retired at the end of the 2013 season, after nine years of professional racing. He is now a board member of the Austrian Cycling Federation and has also become an ambassador for his former team, Elk Haus–Simplon.
His career as a professional cyclist has been an inspiration to many aspiring cyclists, and he will be remembered for his accomplishments.
30. Paul Popp
Paul Popp is a name that will always be remembered in the world of cycling. He was an Austrian cyclist who competed in the 1984 Summer Olympics in three events. His hard work and dedication to the sport paid off when he won the Austrian National Road Race Championships in 1986.
This victory is a testament to Popp’s ambition and talent and demonstrates his immense skill as a cyclist. Popp’s commitment to his sport was evident in the three events he competed in at the 1984 Summer Olympics.
He showed his strength and endurance by taking on such a challenging task, and his determination was well rewarded when he won the Austrian National Road Race Championships in 1986.
This victory was even more impressive considering his age and the fact that he was competing against seasoned veterans of the sport. Popp’s dedication to cycling was admirable, and his commitment to the sport was unquestioned.
His hard work and determination were very evident in his victory at the Austrian National Road Race Championships in 1986. This achievement truly highlights the great talent and ambition of Paul Popp and the legacy he has left in the world of cycling.
31. Eugen Schnalek
Eugen Schnalek was an Austrian cyclist who competed in the 1936 Summer Olympics in the individual and team road race events. He was a talented athlete, known for his skill and endurance. Unfortunately, his life and career were cut short when he was killed in World War II.
Schnalek’s sporting career began in the early 1930s. He won several events, including the one-day race championship in Vienna in 1932 and the Austrian National Road Championship in 1933.
He also competed in several international competitions, including the World Championships in 1934 and 1935, and finally the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin. At the Olympics, Schnalek competed in both the individual and team road racing events.
He was part of the Austrian team that finished fifth in the team event. In the individual event, he finished twelfth overall. After the Olympics, Schnalek continued to race but was drafted into the German Army during World War II. Sadly, he was killed in action in 1942.
Eugen Schnalek was a talented cyclist who had a promising career ahead of him, but his life was tragically cut short by the war. He will be remembered as a great athlete who had a passion for cycling and who gave his life in service of his country.
32. Rudi Valenta
Rudi Valenta was an Austrian cyclist who was active in the 1940s. He is most famously known for his participation in the 1948 Summer Olympics, where he competed in both the individual and team road race events.
Valenta had a long career in professional cycling, and his appearance at the 1948 Olympics marked the peak of his athletic accomplishments. Throughout his career, he represented his home country of Austria and competed in several international events.
At the 1948 Olympics, Valenta was part of the Austrian team that competed in the road race events. He also represented Austria in the individual road race event, where he managed to finish in the top 20 of the competition.
His performance marked the pinnacle of his career, and it was a testament to the hard work and dedication that he had put into his cycling career. Valenta’s achievements in cycling have made him an important figure in the history of Austrian sports.
33. Matthias Krizek
Matthias Krizek is a former professional cyclist from Austria. He started his professional cycling career in 2008 and went on to ride for Cannondale, Team Roth, the Tirol Cycling Team and Team Felbermayr–Simplon Wels between 2013 and 2020.
In 2011, Krizek achieved a significant milestone when he won the Austrian National Road Race Championships. This was a huge achievement for Krizek, and further cemented his reputation as an accomplished cyclist.
His successes have inspired many aspiring cyclists in Austria, and have provided a platform for other athletes to strive for greatness.
34. Adolf Christian
Adolf Christian was an Austrian professional road bicycle racer who achieved a great feat in his career. In 1957, he finished 3rd place in the general classification of the Tour de France, an impressive accomplishment for any cyclist.
What makes it even more impressive is that he is the only Austrian to legitimately reach the podium in the Tour de France. His success was recognized in January 1958 as he was awarded Sportsman of the Year 1957, a testament to his hard work and dedication.
Christian’s achievements serve as an inspiration to all aspiring cyclists, and his legacy will live on in the world of cycling.
35. Andreas Matzbacher
Andreas Matzbacher was an Austrian professional road bicycle racer. He was well-known and respected for his talent and accomplishments in the cycling world. On December 24, 2007, Matzbacher was tragically killed in a car crash in southern Austria.
According to reports, he lost control of his car, veering off the road and crashing into an overhead sign post.
This sudden and unexpected death left the cycling community in shock and grief. Matzbacher had a long and successful career in cycling, having won many races and awards throughout his lifetime.
He was a beloved and respected figure in the cycling world and his loss was deeply felt by all who knew him. Matzbacher was an inspiration to many, and his memory will continue to be honored by the cycling community.
36. Werner Riebenbauer
Werner Riebenbauer is an esteemed former Austrian road and track cyclist. He has achieved great success in the sport, having competed in the road race at the 1996 Summer Olympics and the madison at the 2000 Summer Olympics.
He was also crowned the national champion of Austria, winning the Austrian National Road Race Championships in 2000. To add to his impressive accomplishments, Werner competed in two events at the 2010 UCI Track Cycling World Championships.
This has ensured Werner’s place in cycling history and his legacy as a successful cyclist.
37. Herbert Spindler
Herbert Spindler was an Austrian cyclist who had great success in his career. He competed in the 1976 and 1980 Summer Olympics, where he was able to make a mark for himself. In 1976, he won the Austrian National Road Race Championships, and then again in 1978.
This was a huge achievement for Spindler and gave him the recognition he deserved. His successes in the Olympics and National Championships proved that he was one of the top cyclists in Austria.
His dedication and hard work paid off, and he was able to make a name for himself in the cycling world.
38. Stefan Rucker
Stefan Rucker is an Austrian former professional racing cyclist. He was born in Austria and started cycling at an early age. He was passionate about the sport, and his talent was quickly noticed by the Austrian cycling federation.
He went on to become a professional cyclist, competing in various races throughout Europe. Rucker won several races in his career, including a stage of the Tour de Suisse in 1997 and the Tour of Austria in 2001.
He was also part of the Austrian national team at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, where he finished in the top 10. He was a respected rider on the cycling circuit and was respected for his dedication and hard work.
Rucker retired from professional cycling in 2003 and has since devoted his time and energy to helping younger cyclists. He works closely with the Austrian Cycling Federation to provide support and guidance to young riders.
He also runs a cycling school that provides coaching and training for aspiring cyclists. Rucker is a popular figure in the Austrian cycling community and is considered a role-model for aspiring cyclists.
He has been inducted into the Austrian Cycling Hall of Fame and is an ambassador for the sport. His career is an inspiration for many cyclists, and his work in promoting the sport continues to this day.
39. Roman Humenberger
Roman Humenberger was an Austrian cyclist who had a successful career in the sport. He first began competing in the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany, representing his home nation of Austria.
During the event, he achieved a respectable result in the individual road race, finishing in the top 20. He then returned to the Olympic stage four years later, taking part in the 1976 Summer Olympic Games in Montreal, Canada.
Although he didn’t replicate his previous success, it was still an impressive showing for the Austrian athlete. After the 1976 Olympics, Roman retired from the sport and has since gone on to become a successful coach and mentor for young cyclists in his home country.
40. Hermann Pernsteiner
Hermann Pernsteiner is an Austrian professional road racing cyclist who has been making waves in the cycling world. He currently rides for the UCI WorldTeam Team Bahrain Victorious and has been racing for them since 2018.
In August 2018, Pernsteiner was named in the startlist for the Vuelta a España, one of the most prestigious cycling races in the world. In October 2020, Pernsteiner was again named in a startlist, this time for the Giro d’Italia, another major cycling race.
This marked the first time that Pernsteiner had been named in the startlist for two of the world’s biggest cycling events.
His inclusion in the startlists shows that Pernsteiner is an accomplished cyclist and that he continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the cycling world.
41. Patrick Konrad
Patrick Konrad is an Austrian professional racing cyclist who currently competes in road racing events for the UCI World Team Bora–Hansgrohe. Konrad has been a professional cyclist since 2011, starting off his career with the Austrian Continental team, Vorarlberg.
He then moved to the UCI Professional Continental team, NetApp–Endura, where he achieved his first successes, including two stage wins at the Tour of Austria in 2013 and 2014.
In 2015, Konrad joined the UCI World Bora–Hansgrohe and has since competed in several top international road races, including the Tour de France in 2017. Konrad is considered a strong climber and is a past winner of the Tour of the Alps, taking the title in 2019.
He is currently a top rider for the Bora–Hansgrohe team and will be looking to add to his list of successes in the years to come.
42. Felix Gall
Felix Gall is an Austrian professional cyclist who is currently riding for UCI WorldTeam AG2R Citroën Team. Born in Salzburg, Austria, Gall began his cycling career at a young age, competing in local races and eventually joining the professional ranks in 2014.
He has since become one of the top riders in the world, competing in some of the most prestigious races in the world, including the Tour de France and the Giro d’Italia.
As a member of AG2R Citroën Team, Gall has achieved numerous successes, including multiple stage wins and a second place overall finish at the 2019 Giro d’Italia.
He has also had a number of top-10 finishes in some of the world’s most challenging mountain stages, helping AG2R Citroën Team to a number of team victories.
Gall is known for his strong work ethic and relentless dedication to the sport, making him a formidable opponent in any race. He continues to be one of the top cyclists in the world and looks to further his success in the years to come.
43. Rudolf Mitteregger
Rudolf Mitteregger is a retired cyclist from Austria. He had a successful career, competing in two Summer Olympics. At the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany, he competed in the Men’s 100 km Team Time Trial event.
He and his Austrian teammates, Karl Kupilik and Ludwig Kögl, finished fourth in the competition. Four years later, at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, Canada, Rudolf Mitteregger competed in the Men’s Individual Road Race.
He finished in 22nd place out of a field of 86 cyclists.
This was a remarkable accomplishment that demonstrated his skill and dedication as a cyclist. Throughout his career, Rudolf Mitteregger was highly respected by his peers and was a popular figure in the Austrian cycling community.
He retired from cycling after the 1976 Summer Olympics, but his legacy lives on in the world of cycling. He is an inspiration to many cyclists, both amateur and professional.
Conclusion
Austria is home to some of the best cycling players in the world. From Olympic champions to Tour de France winners, Austrian cyclists have a long and proud history of success on the world stage.
From world-class cyclists such as Peter Sagan and Hermann Maier to renowned cyclists like Thomas Frischknecht and Gerrit Glomser, Austria’s cycling scene is truly world-class.
With its rich cycling culture and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder why Austria is home to some of the best cyclists in the world.
