He began cycling late, allegedly spurred by competition with his brother.

He was a rival to Miguel Indurain in the Tour de France and was placed second in 1993 and won the mountains classification.

In 2005, Roberto Heras broke that record but two months later tested positive for the blood-boosting drug EPO and was disqualified.

[1] He retired in 1997 after breaking his collarbone at that year's Tour de France.

[2] For his attempt on the Hour Record in 1994, he was coached by Dr Michele Ferrari, who was at the trackside during the ride.