Cycling: Miguel Angel Lopez is one of many strong Colombian climbers. His starts are explosive, but his weakness is consistency. At the age of just 26, the professional from Team Astana still has a great future ahead of him.
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| Name: | Miguel Angel Lopez |
| Nation | Colombia |
| Date of Birth: | February 4rd 1994 |
| Place of birth: | Fishing |
| Team: | Astana |
| Greatest successes: | Winner of the Tour de Suisse 2016 2x stage winner at the Vuelta a España 2017 Winner of the junior classification of the Vuelta a España 2017 Third overall at the Giro d*Italia 2018 Third place overall at the Vuelta a España 2018 Winner of the junior classification of the Giro d'Italia 2018 & 2019 Winner of the Tour of Catalonia 2019 |
Miguel Angel Lopez, the Superman
Many professional cyclists are called by nicknames. In that regard it is Miguel Angel Lopez fare well. The 26-year-old Colombian is also known in the scene under the name Superman Lopez. We realize that this nickname makes sense when we see it flying up the mountains at the latest. His appearances are feared by the competition. However, he still has to work on his consistency. If he manages to be in top form at a Grand Tour for three consecutive weeks and improve his qualities in time trials, he will one day be able to win a grand tour of the country. was close Miguel Angel Lopez twice in 2018. He finished third at both the Giro d'Italia and the Vuelta a Espana on the podium.
How do you motivate yourself to train during the Corona break?
Miguel Angel Lopez: "Well, you have to have a strong head to do a lot of indoor training when you're actually going to be riding outdoors for a lot of hours. My motivation was my family. We were in Colombia together. And my team is very important, despite the time difference, we are always in touch. The trainers sent me a rough training plan and the sport directors and my colleagues were always in contact. Thanks to WhatsApp there are no problems in this regard.”
How do you relax after a tough training session or after intense races?
“First and foremost, of course, a good massage helps to perfectly recover after a difficult day. And a little siesta after lunch. A good night's sleep is what I need and is always part of my recovery plan.”
Can you recommend a good series or movie for our readers?
"It's probably Money Heist. A very good series that I really like and recommend.”
What does your favorite food look like and what are you particularly happy about in the food bag?
“In general, I like many things, including pasta, meat, and a variety of salads. The main thing is that the food is well prepared. But our supervisors and our chef always prepare our food bag and our meals with a lot of love. I sometimes like a shot of coke in the bag, it helps you especially on some difficult mountain stages.”
Who do you think is the greatest professional cyclist of all time? Did you have a role model when you were young?
“I can't name just one person because there are so many great athletes in cycling who have done so much for the sport and continue to motivate young athletes around the world. In fact, there are many great champions in cycling.”
Why is cycling the hottest sport in the world?
"I don't know if cycling is the best sport in the world for everyone, but it's my sport. This is my passion. That is my life. It is my dream. I love cycling very much and I have a hard time figuring out why. For me everything revolves around this sport.”
Do you like to watch bike races yourself? Do you remember the first race you saw?
“The first race I saw on TV was of course the Tour de France. It was 2010 and this race made a big impression on me. I can't say I watch a lot of races on TV, but when there's an opportunity to watch something at home or in a hotel after a stage, I enjoy it.”
What do you think was the best race of all time?
"Maybe it was the Tour de France in 2010."
What's your next big goal?
“The big goal is probably to be able to race again as soon as possible. This is now the most important thing for all drivers. And with the new calendar we will see what my goals will be for this season.”
What tips can you pass on to young up-and-coming drivers?
“I would advise everyone to work hard without feeling sorry for themselves. Also you have to build a very good discipline for yourself and follow your own plans and dreams closely.”