Last week, there was big news in the world of pro cycling. No, it had nothing to do with the Tour de France – well, not this tour, anyway. Thanks to a congressional bill led by Representative Mike Thompson (CA-04), the Co-Chair of the Congressional Bike Caucus, Greg LeMond was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.
One of the highest civilian awards that can be received in the United States, the Congressional Gold Medal can only be awarded through Acts of Congress, meaning legislation must be introduced in both the House and Senate. To be even considered for a vote, the bill must be co-sponsored by two-thirds of the membership of the two chambers. Essentially, the bills, like the Greg LeMond Congressional Gold Medal Act, must gather bipartisan support to pass – something that seems pretty rare in today’s political climate.
As the first cyclist to receive this medal, and only one of 10 individual athletes, Greg LeMond is in rare company. But as the only American winner of the Tour de France, and a continued advocate against doping in sport, plus a founding board member of 1in6, the nonprofit created to help men who were victims of childhood sexual abuse, LeMond is certainly worthy of the award.
On July 9, 2025, LeMond was awarded the medal in a ceremony in Washington, D.C., which can be viewed above. Fast forward to 45:30 for the start of the remarks by U.S. Representative Tom Graves, followed by Rep. Mike Thompson. The actual presentation of the medal is right at the 1:00:00 mark, followed by a speech by Greg himself. Make sure to stick around for the speech from philanthropist Stephen Whisnant as well.
Congratulations, Greg!
