A review of the great historical winners of the Critérium du Dauphiné: Merckx, Hinault, Induráin, Froome, Contador...

The Criterium du Dauphiné is one of the most prestigious races on the cycling calendar and has been the scene of great deeds and exciting battles throughout its history. This year, the big favorite is Jonas Vingegaard.

Here are some of the great cyclists in history who have made their mark by winning this competition over the years.

1. Eddy Merckx (Belgium): Merckx, considered one of the greatest cyclists of all time, won the Critérium du Dauphiné on three consecutive occasions, from 1968 to 1970. His dominance in this race marked the beginning of a legendary career full of successes.
2. Bernard Hinault (France): Hinault, another of cycling's great names, won the Critérium du Dauphiné five times. His first victory came in 1977, and he went on to repeat in 1979, 1981, 1982 and 1985, cementing his status as one of the most dominant cyclists of his generation.
3. Miguel Indurain (Spain): Spanish cyclist Indurain also made his mark in the Critérium du Dauphiné with two consecutive victories in 1995 and 1996. Indurain is remembered as one of the best time trial specialists and was a dominant Tour de France champion.
4. Chris Froome (United Kingdom): One of the most successful cyclists of the last decade, Froome has won the Critérium du Dauphiné three times. His victories came in 2013, 2015 and 2016, cementing his position as one of the best climbers and stage stage stage racers.
5. Alberto Contador (Spain): Contador, known for his aggressive style and ability in the mountains, won the Critérium du Dauphiné twice. His victories came in 2007 and 2009, showing his ability to beat the best riders in the peloton.
6. Bradley Wiggins (United Kingdom): Wiggins, a time trial specialist and winner of the 2012 Tour de France, took victory in the Critérium du Dauphiné in 2011. This victory was a springboard to his success in the Grand Boucle the following year.

These are just some of the outstanding cyclists who have tasted victory in the Critérium du Dauphiné throughout its history. It should be noted that, along with Bernard Hinault and Chris Froome, the other 3 cyclists who have managed to win Dauphiné on 3 occasions are Luis Ocaña, Nello Lauredi and Charly Mottet.

This race continues to be a showcase for the world's best riders and an important test in preparation for the Tour de France. Each year, riders strive to add their name to this prestigious list of winners, in search of glory and recognition in the world of cycling. This season, reigning Tour de France champion Jonas Vingegaard will try to join that list.