Perico Delgado

Pedro Delgado Robledo, widely recognized as Perico, was born on April 15, 1960, in Spain. He is a celebrated former professional road cyclist who etched his name in history by winning the prestigious Tour de France in 1988, along with clinching the Vuelta a España title in 1985 and again in 1989.

Standing at 171 cm (5 ft 7½ in) and weighing 64 kg (141 lb), Delgado was known for his remarkable climbing ability and his dynamic racing style that captivated cycling enthusiasts. His career was marked by impressive performances, including a memorable finish at the 1987 Tour de France and strong showings in multiple Grand Tours, where he consistently secured a top 10 finish in 18 events.

Despite facing challenges such as a positive test for the masking agent Probenecid during the 1988 Tour—later deemed not banned by the Union Cycliste Internationale—Delgado’s tenacity remained unshaken. His debut in the 1983 Tour de France saw him rise to second place before a bout of food poisoning derailed his chances, a fate he encountered several times throughout his career, including injuries and personal loss.

After retiring, Delgado transitioned to a role as a sports commentator for Televisión Española, sharing his extensive knowledge during key cycling events. His legacy even inspired the name of the Scottish indie-rock band, The Delgados, ensuring his impact resonates beyond the cycling world.