Barry Hoban dies aged 85 as tributes pour in for British cycling and Tour de France icon

Cycling icon Barry Hoban has passed away aged 85 years old. The Yorkshireman won eight Tour de France stages across his impressive 19-year career as a professional.

Until Mark Cavendish, Hoban was the record holder for the most Tour de France stage wins by a British rider. He also held the British record for the most completed Tours, after completing the race 11 times.

Hoban won the prestigious Gent-Wevelgem race in 1974, the first Brit to do so, beating legendary cycling great Eddy Merckx to the line. He also featured at the 1960 Rome Olympics, riding in the team pursuit for Great Britain. Other notable achievements by the Brit include third-place finishes at Liege-Bastogne-Liege and Paris-Roubaix - two of cycling's most gruelling one-day classics.

Hoban's maiden Tour de France stage win arrived following tragic circumstances in 1967, after his compatriot and team-mate Tom Simpson died during the ascent of Mont Ventoux. As a sign of respect, the following day, the peloton allowed Hoban to cross the finish line in first place in tribute to the late Simpson. Hoban later married Simpson's widow, Helen, and helped bring up his former rival's children, Joanne and Jane.

Following the sad news of his death, tributes for Hoban began to pour in. Photographer Graham Watson said: "Sad news that Barry Hoban has passed away, he was a genuine legend from the glory days of old, and a hero to so many future pros. He was the first British cyclist I photographed in a Tour de France, in 1977, and I'm extremely glad to have this one image of the man in action. RIP."

Commentator Jez Cox added: "What a sad day but also what an important day to celebrate what a massive impact Barry Hoban had. He paved the way for [Mark] Cav, G [Geraint Thomas], [Bradley] Wiggins and [Chris] Froome. I'll never forget my interview I did with him about his 1974 Gent-Wevelgem win for TV. What a passion for our sport. RIP Barry xx."

Popular broadcaster Ned Boulting wrote on X: "Very sorry to hear that Barry Hoban has died. He was a very engaging man, who was always a welcoming presence, whenever we met. And he was a champion cyclist, in a pioneering age."

@philcrowphoto stated: "Really saddened to hear of the passing of Barry Hoban - a true legend of British cycling and a fantastic raconteur, he inspired generations. Ride in peace, Barry. With best wishes to Helen and the family."