Belgium has once again shown its undying admiration for one of the most dominant athletes in sports history — Eddy Merckx, affectionately known as “The Cannibal.” A new monument honoring the cycling legend has been unveiled in his homeland, marking yet another milestone in a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
The bronze monument, positioned in the heart of Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, where Merckx was born, captures him in full motion — gripping the handlebars, eyes locked on the finish line, the very image of determination that made him unstoppable during his prime. Every detail, from the creases in his jersey to the intensity in his expression, tells the story of a man who devoured competition with unmatched hunger.
Merckx, now in his late seventies, attended the unveiling surrounded by family, fans, and fellow cyclists who regard him as the undisputed king of the road. The atmosphere was electric yet emotional, filled with pride, nostalgia, and gratitude. “It’s an honor to see this,” Merckx said with a smile. “Cycling has been my life, and to be remembered this way means more than all the trophies.”
Throughout his extraordinary career, Eddy Merckx claimed 525 victories, including five Tour de France and five Giro d’Italia titles, setting records that still stand as a measure of greatness. But beyond numbers, it was his relentless drive — his refusal to settle for second — that earned him the nickname “The Cannibal.”
The monument stands not just as a tribute to a champion, but as a symbol of Belgian excellence, perseverance, and passion for cycling. As the sun set on the ceremony, the bronze figure gleamed — a timeless reminder that legends like Eddy Merckx never truly fade. The Cannibal lives on, cast forever in the metal of history and the hearts of his people.
