A Dutch professional cyclist who won several stages in the Tour de France and later became a team manager, known for his tactical expertise and ability to motivate riders.
Theo de Rooij is a retired Dutch former professional bicycle racer and former manager of the Rabobank cycling team, known for his strategic intelligence and successful career in the sport.
Born on April 25, 1957, in Harmelen, Netherlands, de Rooij began his professional cycling career in 1980, riding for Belgian teams before joining teams managed by Peter Post for the last eight years of his career.
De Rooij's racing career was marked by several notable achievements, including:
After retiring as a professional rider, de Rooij went on to become a team manager, initially joining Peter Post's Panasonic team and later becoming the manager of Jan Raas at Rabobank. His time as manager of Rabobank was marked by controversy, particularly during the 2007 Tour de France, when he made the decision to withdraw Michael Rasmussen from the tour due to Rasmussen's dishonesty about his pre-tour training location.
As a team manager, de Rooij was known for his emphasis on strategic thinking and teamwork. He believed in building a strong team dynamic and fostering a culture of trust and respect among his riders.
Theo de Rooij's contributions to the world of professional cycling extend beyond his racing career and management tenure. He played a significant role in shaping the sport, particularly in his native Netherlands, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence future generations of cyclists.
De Rooij currently resides in Holten, Netherlands, where he remains involved in the cycling community and continues to advocate for the values of fair play and sportsmanship that defined his career.
85 Years Old
The first Dutch cyclist to win the Tour de France, capturing the title in 1968 and earning a legendary status in the sport. He's a national hero in the Netherlands, celebrated for his remarkable achievement.
84 Years Old
A Dutch cyclist who won the Olympic team time trial and multiple stages in the Tour de France, known for his impressive sprinting abilities.
85 Years Old
Dutch road bicycle racer who won the 1948 Olympic road race and held multiple national championships, known for his impressive cycling career during the post-war era.
73 Years Old
A dominant force in professional cycling during the 1970s and 1980s, winning 115 professional races, including the Tour de France and multiple classics. Known for his exceptional sprinting ability and tactical prowess.
75 Years Old
A Dutch professional road racing cyclist, winning 11 stages in the Tour de France and 1978 World Champion, known for his attacking style and iconic mustache.
