In the world of cycling, and specifically the iconic Tour de France, there's an intriguing dynamic at play. It's a fascinating insight into the complex relationship between fans and athletes, and how victory and defeat are perceived.
The Paradox of Popularity
Tadej Pogacar, the current leader of the Tour, is learning a hard lesson: French fans seem to prefer a heroic defeat over a crushing victory. It's a unique phenomenon that has been a rite of passage for many champions.
The catcalls and ire directed at Pogacar, and other winners before him, might seem counterintuitive. After all, shouldn't fans celebrate victory? Well, it's not that simple.
The MJPP Principle
The rivalry between Jacques Anquetil and Raymond Poulidor in the 60s set a precedent. Anquetil, the cold and calculated winner, and Poulidor, the warm and valiant loser, became a symbol of this paradox. Poulidor, or 'PouPou' as he was affectionately known, became the hallmark of valiant failure, a concept that still resonates with French fans today.
This principle, let's call it the 'MJPP' for short, suggests that cyclists are either boring winners or exciting losers. It's a fine line to tread, and one that has seen many champions derided for their success.
The Exception: Miguel Indurain
However, there have been exceptions to this rule. Miguel Indurain, the Spanish champion, managed to avoid the backlash despite his consistent victories. He achieved this through a unique style: winning time trials and allowing others to take the mountain stage wins. Indurain rode like Anquetil but with the humility of Poulidor, a rare combination.
Doping and Ethics
The MJPP principle took on a new dimension with the rise of doping scandals. Fans began to associate the underdogs, those who found creative ways to lose, with moral superiority. This was evident in the treatment of Lance Armstrong and Alberto Contador, who faced brickbats and boos despite their victories.
The French Ideal
So, what do the French want? It seems they desire a champion who wins like Anquetil but competes and smiles like Poulidor. They want a rider who is not only victorious but also ethical and humble. It's a tall order, and one that Pogacar, with his charismatic and ethical approach, might struggle to fulfill in the eyes of some fans.
Conclusion
This paradox raises interesting questions about sports fandom and the complex emotions fans project onto athletes. It's a unique perspective on the Tour de France and a reminder that victory and defeat are not always black and white.
