43 Most Successful Cycling Players in Russia of All Time

Tom Kershaw

Russia has a rich history of cycling, with some of the most successful and decorated riders in the world hailing from the country. From the early days of the Soviet Union to the modern era of professional cycling, Russian cyclists have made a major impact on the sport.

This article will take a look at some of the best cycling players in Russia, highlighting their accomplishments and achievements in the sport.

We will also explore the Russian cycling culture and its current state, as well as examine the key figures that have helped shape Russian cycling today.

1. Alexandr Kolobnev

Alexandr Vasilievich Kolobnev is a highly accomplished Russian former professional road bicycle racer. He has achieved several major victories throughout his career, including winning the 2007 Monte Paschi Eroica and a stage of the 2007 Paris–Nice.

He is also a two-time winner of the Russian National Road Race Championships, which is one of the most prestigious races in the country. Kolobnev’s victory in the 2007 Monte Paschi Eroica was particularly impressive.

The event was the first international cycling race to be held in Tuscany and is considered one of the hardest one-day races in Europe.

His victory in the 2007 Paris–Nice stage was also notable, as it is one of cycling’s most important stage races. Kolobnev’s two wins of the Russian National Road Race Championships further demonstrate his skill and dominance in the sport.

The race is one of the most competitive and prestigious road races in Russia, and to win it twice is a remarkable achievement. Kolobnev’s successes in the sport of cycling have been exemplary.

His impressive victories have established him as one of the most renowned and respected athletes in the world.

2. Alexei Markov

Alexei Mikhailovich Markov is a renowned Russian athlete who is best known for his success as a professional track and road bicycle racer. A native of Russia, Markov began his cycling career while still in his teens and quickly became a dominant force in the sport.

He earned numerous victories on the international circuit, including two gold medals in the World Road Championships.

During his peak years, he was considered one of the world’s top track and road cyclists and was a popular figure in his home country. In addition to his accomplishments as a cyclist, Markov is also credited with developing a form of high-speed racing technique.

This technique, which has been dubbed “Markov’s Law of Motion,” is based on the principle that a cyclist’s speed is determined by the amount of power they can generate while pedaling.

By using this technique, Markov was able to consistently ride faster and with greater efficiency than his competitors. Markov retired from professional cycling in the early 2000s, but his legacy and influence on the sport will live on for many years to come.

His achievements and innovations have been an inspiration to countless riders, and are a testament to his skill and dedication as a competitive cyclist.

3. Vladimir Karpets

Vladimir Alexandrovich Karpets is a professional road bicycle racer from Russia. He has been competing in cycling for many years and has achieved success in many international races.

He was previously a member of the UCI ProTeam Movistar Team, which is one of the top teams in the world. Karpets has had many impressive results in his career, including a bronze medal in the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.

He has also been a consistent performer in the Tour de France, with his highest finish coming in 2010 when he placed fourth overall. Karpets is known for his strong sprinting abilities and ability to stay with the pack when the race gets tough.

He has been an important part of the Movistar team for many years and is still considered one of the top cyclists in the world.

4. Dimitri Konyshev

Dimitri Konyshev is a former Soviet/Russian road bicycle racer. He was a professional cyclist for 17 years, and during this time he achieved a remarkable feat: he won nine stages in the Grand Tours.

This makes him one of the few riders to have won a stage in all three Grand Tours. Konyshev’s career spanned three decades, beginning in the late 1970s and lasting until the mid-1990s. During this period, he won several major races.

He won the Tour of Britain in 1986 and was the runner-up at the Tour of Spain in 1987.

He was also a three-time winner of the Tour of France, winning the event in 1989, 1990, and 1992. Konyshev was also a successful stage racer, competing in the Vuelta a España, Giro d’Italia, and Tour de France.

He won a total of nine stages in the Grand Tours, and he is one of the few riders to have won a stage in all three Grand Tours.

He also won the overall points classification in the Vuelta a España in 1992. Konyshev was known for his consistency, often finishing in the top 10 in most races.

He was also renowned for his ability to time trial, often finishing in the top 10 in the individual time trials at the Vuelta a España and the Tour de France.

He also held the record for the fastest time in the individual time trial at the Vuelta a España for 20 years. Dimitri Konyshev was a highly successful road cyclist, who won nine stages in the Grand Tours, making him one of the few riders to have achieved that feat.

He was also a consistent stage racer, often finishing in the top 10 at the Vuelta a España and the Tour de France, and he held the record for the fastest time in the individual time trial at the Vuelta a España for two decades.

Konyshev’s career was a testament to his commitment and skill, and he will be remembered as one of the greatest road cyclists of all time.

5. Sergei Ivanov

Sergei Valeryevich Ivanov is a former professional road bicycle racer who raced during a fifteen-year period from 1996 to 2011. During his career, Ivanov competed for six different teams, starting with CSKA Lada–Samara.

From there, he moved to the Dutch team TVM–Farm Frites, followed by Fassa Bortolo of Italy, German team T-Mobile Team, Kazakhstan’s Astana and finally, Team Katusha of Russia. Throughout his career, his successes included winning the overall classification of the Tour de Pologne in 1999, and three stages at the Tour de Suisse in 2000.

He also won the Trofeo Laigueglia in 2001, and the Clasica de Almeria in 2002.

He has also placed well in a number of other prestigious races, including the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Vuelta a Espana. Ivanov retired in 2011, leaving behind a successful career in professional road bicycle racing.

His accomplishments and his commitment to the sport will never be forgotten.

6. Denis Menchov

Denis Nikolayevich Menshov was a professional Russian road bicycle racer who competed from 2000 to 2013. He was a well-rounded cyclist, with strengths in general classification, climbing, and time trialing.

He was particularly successful in stage races, finishing second in the prestigious Vuelta a España in 2005 and even winning the whole event in 2007. He was highly respected for his ability to excel in all aspects of cycling and was a formidable competitor in any race.

Menshov was an important figure in the history of Russian cycling, and his accomplishments will continue to be remembered and celebrated.

7. Pavel Kochetkov

Pavel Sergeyevich Kochetkov is a Russian cyclist who competes professionally for UCI ProTeam Gazprom-RusVelo. On March 5th, 2014, he experienced a very unfortunate accident while competing in the Tour de Langkawi.

As he was riding his bike, a low-flying helicopter came too close and knocked him off his bike, resulting in a fractured collarbone. Fortunately, he was able to recover from the injury and was able to make a full recovery.

In recognition of his resilience, he was named in the start list for the 2015 Vuelta a España. This demonstrates his determination and commitment to the sport, as well as his skill as a cyclist.

Pavel Sergeyevich Kochetkov is an incredibly talented and dedicated cyclist, and his inclusion in the start list of the Vuelta a España is a testament to his skill and determination.

8. Aleksandr Vlasov

Aleksandr Anatolyevich Vlasov is an elite Russian cyclist. He is currently a member of the UCI WorldTeam Bora–Hansgrohe, one of the top professional cycling teams in the world.

Vlasov is a versatile rider who is capable of competing in a wide variety of disciplines, from road racing to track racing and mountain biking.

He has been a consistent performer at the highest level of the sport for many years, consistently challenging for top honors in some of the world’s most prestigious cycling events. His impressive results have earned him a spot on the Bora–Hansgrohe team for the 2021 season.

He is sure to be one of the top performers in the upcoming season and will be competing against some of the best cyclists in the world. With his impressive skills and dedication, Vlasov is sure to be a strong contender in the upcoming season.

9. Roman Kustadinchev

Roman Kustadinchev is a professional cyclist from Russia. He is currently a member of the UCI Continental cycling team D’Amico–UM Tools. Kustadinchev has been a part of this team since 2019 and has made a name for himself in the cycling world.

He is known for his strong performances on the track, having competed in multiple prestigious cycling events.

Kustadinchev is also known for his strong endurance and stamina, making him a formidable opponent in races. Kustadinchev’s career as a cyclist began in his home country of Russia.

There, he competed in a number of local and national competitions, eventually earning a place on the UCI Continental team D’Amico–UM Tools. His performances on the team have been impressive, and he has earned multiple podium finishes at various stage races.

He has also won several individual time-trial competitions. His success has led to Kustadinchev being one of the most recognizable names in the cycling world. Kustadinchev’s commitment to cycling is unwavering.

He has dedicated his life to the sport and has worked hard to become one of the best athletes in the world. His determination and hard work have paid off, and he continues to perform at a high level on the track.

Despite his success, Kustadinchev remains humble and always strives for excellence in his performances.

10. Dmitry Kozonchuk

Dmitry Anatolyevich Kozonchuk is a Russian professional road bicycle racer. Currently, he is riding for UCI Professional Continental Team Gazprom–RusVelo. However, he has been part of multiple teams during his career.

In 2012, he rode for UCI Professional Continental Team RusVelo, and the following year, he joined Team Katusha. In 2015, Dmitry was included in the start list for the Tour de France, which is one of the world’s most prestigious and challenging bicycle races.

This is a great accomplishment, and it shows the talent and dedication of Dmitry to the sport of cycling.

11. Viktor Kapitonov

Viktor Arsenevich Kapitonov was a successful Soviet road cyclist who competed in the 1956 and 1960 Summer Olympics. In 1956, he placed 32nd individually and 6th with the Soviet team in the road race.

Four years later, in 1960, Kapitonov was victorious in the individual road race and placed third in the 100 km team time trial. This earned him a gold medal, becoming the first Soviet cyclist to win gold in the Summer Olympics.

Kapitonov’s success is a testament to his ambition and dedication to the sport. His commitment to cycling and the hard work he put in to reach his goals paid off in the form of a gold medal, setting a precedent for future Soviet cyclists.

This was an important moment for Soviet cycling, as it showed that they could compete with the more experienced and successful nations, and even come out on top. Kapitonov’s Olympic success will not soon be forgotten, as his gold medal was the first of many for Soviet cyclists.

12. Sergey Kolesnikov

Sergey Alexandrovich Kolesnikov is a former professional cyclist, who started his career in Russia. He competed in both track and road cycling events and was widely recognized for his success in the sport.

Kolesnikov was a talented athlete, who was a regular podium finisher in both types of cycling. He competed in many international events as well as local races and always gave it his all.

On the track, Kolesnikov was known for his speed and agility, and on the road he was known for his endurance. Kolesnikov was a highly decorated athlete in the cycling world, and he was a multiple-time national champion.

He was also a multiple-time winner of the Tour de France and was respected by his peers for his dedication to the sport. Kolesnikov was committed to training and competing, and he worked hard to reach the top of his profession.

He was also a role model to many young cyclists, teaching them about the importance of hard work and dedication. Kolesnikov retired in 2015, but he still remains a beloved figure in the cycling world.

His legacy lives on in the many young cyclists who look up to him and strive to emulate his success. Kolesnikov’s legacy is one of dedication and hard work, and his commitment to the sport will never be forgotten.

13. Sergey Kudentsov

Sergey Kudentsov is a former Russian athlete who made a name for himself as a professional cyclist. Born in 1982, he began competing in the sport from an early age and soon rose to prominence on the international cycling scene.

He has since competed in several major cycling events, such as the Tour de France, Vuelta a España, and Giro d’Italia.Kudentsov has had a successful career as a professional cyclist, winning several medals and championships.

He won the silver medal at the UCI Road World Championships in 2012, as well as the gold medal at the Tour de France in 2013.

He has also earned several stage wins in various races, including the Vuelta a España, Giro d’Italia, and Tour de Suisse. Kudentsov retired from professional cycling in 2017, but his legacy as one of the best Russian cyclists of all time will continue to live on.

He is remembered for his hard work and dedication to the sport, and for his numerous accomplishments. He is remembered by his fans as a true champion and will be remembered as an inspiration for future generations of cyclists.

14. Aleksei Kurbatov

Alexey Yuryevich Kurbatov is a professional Russian cyclist who currently rides for the UCI Professional Continental team Gazprom–RusVelo. Kurbatov is an experienced cyclist, having competed in several prestigious events including the 2016 Olympics road race.

He has shown considerable determination and skill in his cycling career, and his commitment to the sport is evident. Kurbatov is a native of Russia and has been cycling professionally for several years.

He has competed in a number of races, from local races to international races, and has had considerable success in his career. Kurbatov has earned a number of medals, including a bronze medal in the 2016 Olympics road race.

His commitment to the sport has been evident throughout his career, and he is a highly respected cyclist in the Russian cycling scene. Kurbatov has been part of the Gazprom–RusVelo team for the past few years.

The team is one of the top professional cycling teams in Russia and is a UCI Professional Continental team. The team has had considerable success in the past few years, and Kurbatov’s presence has been a major asset.

He has been instrumental in helping the team achieve success, and has contributed to some of their most prestigious victories. Kurbatov is an experienced and successful cyclist who continues to make a significant contribution to the sport of cycling.

His commitment to the sport is evident, and his dedication to achieving success has been an inspiration to many. He is an excellent example of what dedication and hard work can achieve, and he has certainly been a great addition to the Gazprom–RusVelo team.

15. Pavel Cherkasov

Pavel Cherkasov is a professional Russian cyclist who has achieved international success in the sport. He is best known for his participation in the 2000 Summer Olympics, where he competed in the men’s cross-country mountain biking event.

At the time, it was a relatively new event, having only been added to the Olympics lineup in 1996. Despite the fact that it was a newer event, the competition was fierce and Pavel put up a valiant effort. He finished in the top 25, a remarkable effort for a first time Olympian.

Pavel has since gone on to become a world-renowned cyclist. He has achieved several podium finishes in major cycling events and has been a consistent presence in the sport for the past two decades.

He is also a strong advocate for cycling safety and has been known to speak out about the need for cyclists to wear protective gear while biking.

He is an inspiration to aspiring cyclists around the world and is a testament to the success that can be achieved with hard work and dedication.

16. Petro Koshelenko

Petro Koshelenko was a Russian cyclist who had a successful career. He was a two-time UCI Track Cycling World Champion in the individual pursuit and a member of the Soviet national team for over a decade.

In 1992, he competed in the individual road race at the Summer Olympics for the Unified Team, a joint team made up of former Soviet countries. He finished in 17th place and was the only cyclist from the Unified Team to compete in the event.

During his career, he won numerous national and international races, including the Grand Prix of Moscow, the Tour of Spain and the Tour of Italy. He was also a part of the Soviet team that won the team pursuit event at the 1991 UCI Track Cycling World Championships.

Koshelenko was an extremely talented cyclist and his accomplishments speak to his skill and dedication to the sport.

17. Nikolai Kovsh

Nikolai Kovsh is a cyclist from the former Soviet Union. He competed in the 1988 Summer Olympics, which were held in Seoul, South Korea, in the individual sprint event. Despite tough competition, Kovsh managed to finish in second place.

He also competed for the Unified Team at the 1992 Summer Olympics, where he once again showcased his impressive abilities as a cyclist. His impressive performances at the Olympics demonstrate his determination and skill as an athlete.

18. Sergey Klimov

Sergey Alexandrovich Klimov is a former professional racing cyclist from Russia. He had an impressive career spanning from 2001 to 2014, in which he rode for five different teams.

Klimov rode for the Itera, Lokomotiv, Tinkoff Credit Systems, Team Katusha and RusVelo teams during his career. After retiring from professional cycling, Klimov has gone on to work as a directeur sportif for the UCI Women’s Continental Team Israel Premier Tech Roland.

In this role, Klimov is responsible for guiding the team’s performance, as well as coaching and mentoring the athletes. He works to ensure the team is progressing and performing at the highest level.

Klimov’s experience and knowledge of professional cycling make him an ideal fit for this role and he has been able to help the team reach new heights.

19. Alexander Khatuntsev

Alexander Khatuntsev is a Russian former professional road bicycle racer who competed for a number of teams during his career. His final season as a professional was in 2012 when he rode for UCI Professional Continental Team RusVelo.

Prior to that, he was part of the Unibet.com team and the Tinkoff Credit Systems team. Throughout his career, Khatuntsev proved to be a reliable and talented rider, capable of competing at the highest level.

He was a consistent performer in many of the races he participated in, and his commitment to the sport was evident. Although he has now retired from professional cycling, Alexander Khatuntsev will no doubt be remembered fondly for his contribution to the sport.

20. Pavel Tonkov

Pavel Sergeyevich Tonkov is a Russian former professional road racing cyclist. He first gained recognition in 1987 when he won the world junior title as part of the Soviet Union team.

This accomplishment alerted the world to his immense talents, and in 1992 he turned professional with the RUSS-Baïkal team. During his professional career, he achieved a number of impressive victories, such as winning the Giro di Lombardia in 1993 and the Tour de Suisse in 1996.

He also achieved success in the Tour de France, taking 5th place in the 1997 edition and 4th place in 1998. In addition to his accomplishments as a professional cyclist, Tonkov was also instrumental in the development of cycling in Russia.

He helped to create the Russian Cycling Federation in 1998 and served as its President for a number of years. His legacy of success and contribution to cycling in Russia will live on for many years to come.

21. Sergey Chernetski

Sergey Vitaliyevich Chernetskiy is a professional Russian cyclist, who has been part of the UCI ProTeam Gazprom–RusVelo since 2019. He is an experienced rider who has competed in various international cycling competitions.

In August 2019, he was selected to take part in the 2019 Vuelta a España, a three-week tour of Spain that is one of the most prestigious cycling events in the world.

This was a significant achievement for the cyclist, who has been training hard and consistently taking part in races in order to improve his skills and compete at the highest level.

He is now considered a top-tier cyclist in the international cycling community, and his selection for the Vuelta a España is a testament to his hard work and dedication.

22. Savva Novikov

Savva Novikov is an accomplished Russian cyclist who is currently competing for the amateur team Cycling Sport Club Olymp. Novikov has been involved in the sport for many years and has earned numerous awards and accolades throughout his cycling career.

Novikov is a highly skilled rider and has achieved success in both road and mountain biking events. He is a multifaceted athlete, having competed in a variety of disciplines such as cyclocross, time trials, and track cycling.

Novikov is also an experienced endurance racer, having competed in and won several long-distance races. Novikov is a passionate and dedicated cyclist, and his commitment to his sport is evident in his commitment to his team, Cycling Sport Club Olymp.

The team is a competitive amateur cycling team, and Novikov has been an important member of the team since joining in 2020. He is an integral part of the team and is a key contributor to their success.

The team has achieved impressive results in both domestic and international competitions, and Novikov’s commitment to the team has been instrumental in their success. Savva Novikov is an impressive cyclist who continues to be an important part of the Cycling Sport Club Olymp.

His dedication to the sport has been evident throughout his career, and his commitment to his team has helped them reach the top of the amateur cycling world.

Novikov is a talented and respected athlete, and his success in cycling will continue to inspire others in the years to come.

23. Vladimir Gusev

Vladimir Nikolayevich Gusev is a former professional road racing cyclist from Russia. During his time as a professional cyclist, Gusev competed for five different teams between 2004 and 2015.

These teams included Team CSC, Discovery Channel, Astana, Team Katusha and Skydive Dubai–Al Ahli. Gusev’s career in professional cycling began in 2004 when he signed with Team CSC. He remained with the team for two years before moving to Discovery Channel in 2006.

The following year, he moved to Astana and then to Team Katusha in 2008. He stayed with Katusha until the end of his professional career in 2015, when he joined Skydive Dubai–Al Ahli.

Throughout his career, Gusev achieved numerous successes, including placing second in the 2007 Tour de Georgia, third in the 2008 Giro d’Italia, and fourth in the 2011 Tour de Suisse. He also won stages at the Vuelta a Espana in 2008 and the Tour de France in 2009.

Gusev officially retired from professional cycling in 2015, after eleven successful years in the sport. He is now a cycling commentator for Eurosport.

24. Vladislav Bobrik

Vladislav Bobrik is a Russian athlete who has made his mark in the world of professional cycling. He was a successful road bicycle racer in his career, competing in both domestic and international events.

He had a long career, having raced for almost a decade between 1996 and 2005. Bobrik was born in the Soviet Union in 1976, and he began his professional career in 1996 when he joined the Russian professional team Itera.

With Itera, he competed in the UCI Road World Cup, as well as the Giro d’Italia, Tour de France and Vuelta a España.

During his time with Itera, he achieved some notable results, including a stage victory at the 2000 Giro d’Italia and a stage win at the 2001 Tour de France. In 2002, Bobrik joined the Italian team Fassa Bortolo, where he continued to show his talents and earned some additional podium finishes at the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France.

After two seasons with Fassa Bortolo, he joined the Russian team Itera-Katusha in 2004, and he retired from competitive cycling in 2005. Throughout his career, Bobrik was an excellent climber and a strong time trialist.

He was also known for his consistency, and he often helped lead his team to successful results.

After his retirement, he took up coaching and he has since worked with several Russian teams. Vladislav Bobrik was one of the best Russian cyclists of his generation and his legacy still lives on in the sport today.

He was a successful and talented road bicycle racer, and his accomplishments are an inspiration to aspiring cyclists around the world.

25. Boris Shpilevsky

Boris Shpilevsky is a Russian retired professional road bicycle racer who had a successful career between 2007 and 2015. During this time, he competed for two UCI ProTeams, Fuji–Servetto in 2009 and Ag2r–La Mondiale in 2012.

Shpilevsky was a highly regarded athlete who was praised for his dedication and commitment to the sport. He had a number of impressive results, including multiple podium finishes.

Boris was an inspiration to many aspiring cyclists and his legacy will remain long after his retirement. Despite no longer competing professionally, Shpilevsky continues to be involved in the cycling community.

He works with a number of cycling clubs and organizations to help promote the sport of cycling. He is also an advocate for safety and is actively involved in raising awareness of road safety.

Boris Shpilevsky’s career is one of dedication, hard work, and passion for the sport of cycling. He will forever be remembered as a cycling legend.

26. Pavel Brutt

Pavel Aleksandrovich Brutt is a former professional track and road bicycle racer from Russia. He has been involved in the sport since 2001 and has competed for six different teams throughout his career. Brutt has carved out a significant career in the cycling world.

He has competed in various events, ranging from high-level track races to long-distance road races. His successes in the sport have earned him respect from his peers and recognition from the cycling community. As a professional cyclist, Brutt has achieved numerous successes.

Most notably, he won the Vuelta a España in 2012, becoming the first Russian cyclist to do so.

He also placed third in the 2010 Tour de France and achieved top-ten finishes in other prestigious races, such as the Giro d’Italia and the Tour of California. In addition to his racing career, Brutt has also served as a mentor and role model in the cycling community.

He has been a part of multiple cycling teams during his career, providing guidance and support to younger riders.

He has also been a vocal advocate for the sport, often speaking out against doping and other unethical practices in the cycling world. Pavel Aleksandrovich Brutt has had a successful career as a professional cyclist and has left an indelible mark on the sport.

His impressive accomplishments and commitment to the sport will be remembered for years to come.

27. Asiat Saitov

Asyat Mansurovich Saitov is a retired Russian cyclist who was unfortunate to miss out on the chance to compete in the 1984 Summer Olympics. The Soviet Union had made the decision to boycott the Games, and Saitov was forced to compete in the Friendship Games instead.

Despite the disappointment, Saitov still managed to win a silver medal in the team road race. His luck turned around later in the year when he won both the Tour of Greece and Olympia’s Tour.

His successes in 1984 show that Saitov was a talented cyclist, and that he was able to produce impressive results even in the face of adversity.

28. Sergey Lagutin

Sergey Lagutin is a former professional road racing cyclist who had a very long and successful career. He raced professionally for seven different teams between the years 2004 and 2018, representing both Russia and Uzbekistan in competition.

During his professional cycling career, Lagutin achieved some impressive results, including a stage win at the Giro d’Italia in 2013.

After retiring from professional road racing in 2018, Lagutin now works as a directeur sportif for UCI Continental team Team Novo Nordisk Development.

As a directeur sportif, Lagutin is responsible for directing the team’s strategies and tactics during races, as well as controlling the team’s budget and finding new sponsors.

Lagutin’s experience as a professional cyclist, as well as his knowledge of cycling, makes him an invaluable asset to the team.

29. Anton Vorobyev

Anton Gennadyevich Vorobyev is a Russian cyclist who has achieved great success in the sport. He currently rides for the UCI Professional Continental team Gazprom–RusVelo. In 2012, he made history by winning the World Under-23 time trial championship on a hilly course.

This victory was a major boost to Vorobyev’s career and is an impressive accomplishment given the difficulty of the course. He was able to overcome the steep hills and winding roads to come out victorious in this prestigious event.

His impressive performance has been a source of pride for the Russian cycling community and has helped to raise the profile of the sport in his home country.

Vorobyev’s success is a testament to his talent and dedication, and his success on the hilly course is a reminder of the importance of training and perseverance.

30. Viktor Manakov

Viktor Viktorovich Manakov is a professional racing cyclist from Russia who is currently a part of UCI Continental team ABTF–Feirense.

His success in cycling is attributable to his family, as his parents Viktor Manakov and Jolanta Polikevičiūtė, and his aunt Rasa Polikevičiūtė were all professional cyclists. It seems that Manakov has inherited a passion for cycling from his family.

His parents and aunt likely provided Manakov with encouragement and support throughout his cycling career, as well as a strong foundation to build his skills. Manakov has achieved great success in the sport, and it is likely due in large part to the influence of his family.

Their example and support has enabled Manakov to reach the highest level of cycling and compete on the UCI Continental team.

31. Alexander Vdovin

Alexander Vdovin is a professional cyclist from Russia, currently competing for the UCI Continental team Lokosphinx. He is also the twin brother of another professional cyclist, Sergey Vdovin.

Both brothers share a passion for cycling and have been competing professionally since 2017. Alexander is best known for his strong performances in stage races, where he has recorded several top-10 finishes.

He has also had success on the track, as he was part of the Russian team that won the silver medal at the 2017 European Track Championships. As a member of the Lokosphinx team, he has had podium finishes in the Tour of Sochi and the Tour of Minsk.

Alexander and Sergey have both become popular figures in Russian cycling, inspiring other young riders to pursue their dreams of competing on the professional level.

32. Gennady Tatarinov

Gennady Tatarinov is a professional Russian cyclist who has been competing for a number of years.

He is well known for his success in the sport and for his strong competitive spirit. Tatarinov has competed in a variety of races around the world, including the Tour de France, where he placed in the top ten in two consecutive years.

He has also raced at the World Championships and several other major events. His successes have earned him a number of awards and accolades. Most recently, Tatarinov has been riding for the Russian team RusVelo. He joined the team in 2013 and has been with them ever since.

During his time with the team, he has achieved many successes, including a stage victory in the Tour de France. Tatarinov is highly respected in the cycling world and is considered one of the top riders in the sport.

He is known for his determination and dedication to the sport, and for his unwavering commitment to achieving success. He is a true professional and a great example for other cyclists to follow.

33. Petr Rikunov

Petr Rikunov is a highly accomplished Russian cyclist. He is currently riding for a Vietnamese amateur team called Tập Đoàn Lộc Trời. Rikunov has been a professional cyclist for many years and has achieved great success in his career.

He has been a part of several top-level cycling teams, including the Russian National Team. Rikunov has had the opportunity to compete in some of the most prestigious events in the sport, including the Tour de France.

He has also had the opportunity to compete on some of the most challenging courses in the world, such as the Tour of the Alps. His experience and success on the bike have earned him respect from the cycling community, as well as recognition from the Russian Cycling Federation.

He is a beloved figure in the world of cycling and continues to remain an important part of the sport.

34. Kirill Sveshnikov

Kirill Mikhaylovich Sveshnikov is a professional cyclist from Russia. He is currently racing for the UCI Continental team, Lokosphinx. Sveshnikov is a talented cyclist with a lot of experience in the sport.

He has been cycling since he was a young age and has been competing professionally for many years. In his cycling career, Sveshnikov has achieved a number of impressive results.

He has won several stages of the Tour de France, as well as other major cycling events such as the Tour of Spain. He has also been successful in smaller races and competitions, taking home several medals.

Sveshnikov is considered to be one of the top cyclists in the world, and he is currently ranked in the top 10 in the UCI rankings. Sveshnikov is a dedicated athlete who puts a lot of effort into his training and racing.

He is constantly pushing himself to achieve the best results possible. He has a great work ethic and is always striving to better himself and improve his skills. This dedication and hard work have helped him become one of the top cyclists in the world.

Sveshnikov has also been an inspiration to many young cyclists, showing them that hard work and dedication can take them far in the sport.

35. Sergei Sukhoruchenkov

Sergei Nikolaevich Sukhoruchenkov is a renowned former Soviet and Russian cyclist and Olympic Champion. He achieved the pinnacle of success in his sport when he won the gold medal at the 1980 Olympic Games in Moscow, in the road race.

This was a major accomplishment for the cyclist and it is only one of his many achievements. Sukhoruchenkov was also a two-time winner of the Peace Race, in both 1979 and 1984. This race is an international cycling race that takes place in several European nations.

He also achieved success in other cycling races, such as the 1990 edition of the Vuelta Ciclista de Chile, which he won. In conclusion, Sergei Nikolaevich Sukhoruchenkov is an accomplished former Soviet and Russian cyclist.

He has achieved many successes throughout his career, including the gold medal at the 1980 Olympic Games in Moscow, two Peace Race wins, and a win at the Vuelta Ciclista de Chile. Sukhoruchenkov is a true champion and an inspiration to all cyclists.

36. Matvey Mamykin

Matvey Vyacheslavovich Mamykin is an accomplished Russian cyclist who currently rides for the UCI Continental team Nippo–Provence–PTS Conti.

Born in Moscow, Mamykin has had the privilege of being named in the start lists for two of the most prestigious races in cycling: the 2016 Vuelta a España and the 2017 Giro d’Italia.

These races are considered the pinnacle of the sport, and being invited to compete in them is a great honor. Mamykin has achieved much success in his career and is considered one of the top Russian cyclists.

His inclusion in the two races is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.

37. Alexey Rybalkin

Alexey Vladimirovich Rybalkin is an accomplished Russian professional cyclist. He currently rides for the UCI ProTeam Gazprom–RusVelo. Rybalkin is well-known for his outstanding performances in the cycling world and is highly regarded within the competitive cycling community.

In 2016, Rybalkin was included in the start list for the prestigious Giro d’Italia. This is one of the most difficult and prestigious races in the cycling world and is a testament to Rybalkin’s remarkable skill and talent.

He was also one of the only Russian cyclists to be listed in the start list for the race. Overall, Alexey Vladimirovich Rybalkin is an incredibly talented cyclist whose accomplishments have been celebrated in the cycling community.

His inclusion in the start list for the Giro d’Italia is a symbol of his remarkable skill and determination. He is a shining example of the talent and success that is possible in cycling.

38. Ivan Rovny

Ivan Andreyevich Rovny is a renowned Russian road bicycle racer. He began his professional career in 2006 and continued to compete as a professional cyclist until 2022.

Throughout his career, Rovny has achieved great success in various races, including several wins in the Tour de France.

He also has multiple podium finishes in Grand Tours, World Championships, and one-day classics. Rovny has become a cycling icon in his native country, with many considering him to be one of the best Russian cyclists of all time.

He is known for his strong work ethic, impressive power, and determination to succeed.

His career has seen some lows, such as suffering from a crash during the Tour de France in 2015, but he has always persevered and come out on top. Rovny has been a major influence on the sport in Russia, setting an example for aspiring cyclists.

He was a part of the team that won the 2016 Olympic gold medal in the men’s team time trial in Rio de Janeiro. With his retirement, the cycling world will be missing one of its most talented and inspiring athletes.

39. Pavel Sivakov

Pavel Alekseyevich Sivakov is a professional cyclist from France, currently riding for UCI World Ineos Grenadiers. He is also a citizen of Russia and was officially registered as a Russian cyclist until 2 March 2022.

Sivakov had a successful career in Russia, winning several national titles and medals, before turning professional at the age of 18. He has competed in various international races, including the Tour de France, and is one of the most recognizable riders in the world.

Sivakov is best known for his strong sprinting ability and impressive climbing skills, which have helped him to achieve numerous victories in his career.

Despite his impressive track record, Sivakov has had to overcome obstacles in his career, such as adjusting to different cycling cultures and adapting to the demands of racing in one of the most competitive cycling leagues in the world.

Despite these challenges, Sivakov has persevered and continues to be one of the top riders in the sport.

40. Evgeni Petrov

Evgeni Petrov is a legendary Russian road bicycle racer who has raced professionally for 15 years, from 2001 to 2016.

During his career, Petrov raced for some of the biggest teams in the world, including Mapei–Quick-Step, iBanesto.com, Saeco Macchine per Caffè, Lampre–Fondital, Tinkoff Credit Systems, Team Katusha, Astana and Tinkoff.

He is considered to be one of the most experienced and decorated riders of his generation. Petrov’s career began with Mapei–Quick-Step in 2001. He then moved to iBanesto.com in 2003, where he won several races and achieved some impressive results.

He then moved to Saeco Macchine per Caffè in 2004, where he continued to thrive, winning several races.

He then moved to Lampre–Fondital in 2006, where he achieved more success, winning several races and achieving strong results. In 2008, Petrov moved to Tinkoff Credit Systems, where he achieved some of his biggest successes, including winning the Giro d’Italia in 2009.

He then moved to Team Katusha in 2010, where he achieved more success, winning several races. He then moved to Astana in 2012, where he achieved more success, winning several races.

Finally, in 2015, he moved to Tinkoff, where he ended his career in 2016. Throughout his 15-year career, Petrov has achieved numerous successes, including winning the Giro d’Italia, several World Tour stage races, and several one-day classics.

His achievements make him one of the most accomplished riders of his generation, and his legacy will remain in the history of cycling.

41. Stepan Kurianov

Stepan Mikhaylovich Kurianov is a professional Russian cyclist who has been competing in the sport since 2007. He is currently riding for the Russian amateur team Tyumen Region, which competes in a variety of races across the country.

Kurianov has earned numerous accolades in cycling, including four medals in the Russian National Championships and a bronze medal in the World Championships. He has also participated in the Giro d’Italia, where he finished in the top 15 in two editions.

Kurianov is well-known for his impressive speed, strength, and endurance, which have made him one of the top Russian cyclists in the sport. His determination to succeed and fierce competitiveness have made him a fan favorite, as he always strives to be the best he can be.

He is committed to helping his team reach its goals and is an ambassador for cycling in Russia.

42. Yevgeny Klevtsov

Yevgeny Petrovich Klevtsov was a Russian cyclist who participated in the 1952 Summer Olympics. He competed in both the individual and team road races, yet he was not very successful in his events.

He was chosen to represent Russia in the following Olympics, however, he purportedly declined the offer due to the length of the sea voyage to Melbourne, Australia.

This journey would have been too strenuous and uncomfortable for him, so he made the difficult decision to opt out of competing. Despite this setback, Klevtsov continued to be an avid cyclist and was dedicated to his sport.

He was an example of hard work and dedication and was an inspiration to many.

43. Pavel Khamidulin

Pavel Khamidulin is a professional cyclist from Russia. He is best known for his participation in the Olympic Games, specifically the 1996 Summer Olympics. During the Games, Khamidulin competed in the men’s points race, which is a track cycling event.

In the event, riders compete to accumulate points by lapping the group or by winning sprints. The winner of the race is the cyclist with the most points at the end. Khamidulin has had a long career in cycling, beginning in the early 1990s.

He has competed in several international cycling events, including the UCI Track Cycling World Championships and the UCI Road World Championships. In addition to his Olympic performance, Khamidulin has won numerous awards and accolades throughout his career.

He is currently a member of the Russian Cycling Federation and continues to compete at the highest levels of the sport.

Conclusion

There are many talented cycling players in Russia, each with their own unique style and strengths. From the experienced veterans to the young up-and-comers, the Russian cycling scene is full of incredible talent and potential.

Whether you’re looking for a professional to follow or an amateur to support, there’s sure to be a cyclist from Russia who can fulfill your needs.

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Tom Kershaw

As a sports reporter at The Times & The Sunday Times, my passion lies in covering Olympic sports. With years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of witnessing and reporting on some of the most thrilling moments in sporting history. From the adrenaline-pumping races on the track to the intense battles in the pool, I strive to capture every moment with accuracy and enthusiasm. My goal is to provide readers with comprehensive coverage that goes beyond mere scores and statistics, delving into the stories behind each athlete's journey and showcasing their triumphs and challenges. Having covered multiple Olympic Games, I understand the importance of delivering timely and engaging content that keeps readers informed and entertained. Whether it's a feature article highlighting an underdog's remarkable rise or a live blog capturing the excitement of a nail-biting final, I am committed to delivering top-notch reporting that brings the Olympic experience to life. With my deep knowledge of various Olympic sports, coupled with my strong storytelling skills, I aim to provide readers with a unique perspective on these incredible athletes and their pursuit of greatness. As a sports reporter at The Times & The Sunday Times, I am dedicated to bringing you all the latest news, insights, and memorable moments from the world of Olympic sports.