CNN —Biniam Girmay made history at this year’s Tour de France and the Eritrean cyclist wants to use his success to inspire others to follow his path. The Intermarche-Wanty rider, who previously became the first Black African to win a stage at the Giro d’Italia, now wants other Black riders to excel in the sport. “I’m convinced that my compatriots will be happy to hear that my future is intertwined with the team who gave me the opportunity to write important pages of African cycling history,” he said after signing his long-term contract. Only two other African riders, Robbie Hunter and Daryl Impey of South Africa, both White, had previously won stages at the Tour de France, per Reuters. Winning today is unbelievable.”He has since gone on to claim victories in Stages 8 and 12, achievements he hope will blaze a trail for the next generation of young Black riders to follow.

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