In a moving tribute to the history of Spanish cycling and its outstanding participation in the
Tour de France, Renfe has inaugurated a photographic exhibition inside an AVE train, entitled "Etapa reina, objetivo París" (Queen stage, objective Paris). This moving exhibition, inaugurated last July 13, honors the 65 brave Spanish cyclists who have conquered a total of 130 stages over the years in the prestigious cycling competition.
The exhibition comes at an emblematic moment, coinciding with the start of the first service of the Barcelona-Lyon AVE, a rail link connecting two important urban centers in Spain and France. But beyond being a simple journey, this AVE becomes a journey through the rich history of Spanish cycling in the Tour de France.
From pioneer Salvador Cardona, who paved the way in 1929, to the contemporary achievements of Pello Bilbao in the most recent edition, Spanish cyclists have left an indelible mark on the Grande Boucle. Among them, the legendary figure of Miguel Induráin, who conquered the hearts of fans with his 12 stage victories over the course of his astonishing career, stands out strongly. He is followed by Luis Ocaña with nine stage wins and Bahamontes, the eagle of Toledo, who won seven times.
The photographic exhibition is not only an ode to famous names, but also to the individual and collective efforts that have shaped the history of Spanish cycling. Julio Jiménez, Eduardo Chozas, Perico Delgado, Óscar Freire, Luis León Sánchez and Alejandro Valverde, among others, have left an indelible mark by achieving four stage victories each during their participation in the Tour de France.
The AVE train, which has often been associated with speed and modernity, now becomes a vehicle of nostalgia and admiration. The interior walls of the AVE cars are adorned with a rich collection of 164 black-and-white and full-color photographs, carefully selected to capture memorable moments, gestures of triumph and the camaraderie among riders.
This traveling exhibition not only celebrates the cyclists' achievements, but also embodies the values of the sport and the spirit of achievement that has driven these athletes to cross the finish line in Paris time and time again. A constant reminder of the passion and dedication that have made cycling an integral part of Spanish sporting culture.
The exhibition, which is currently on the AVE Barcelona-Lyon and AVE Madrid-Marseille since July 28, will continue to delight passengers and cycling lovers during the months of August and September. Renfe, by becoming the "train of sport", not only facilitates travel, but also provides an enriching experience that connects people with the history and excitement of Spanish cycling in the Tour de France.