Sean Kelly, known as the 'King of the Classics,' shares insights on Liège-Bastogne-Liège, a race where he excelled over the years, with wins in 1984 and 1989, holding a remarkable record. The race's unique features, including the absence of cobbles and a slower elimination process, set it apart from other classics. Kelly reflects on the course changes over the decades, emphasizing the challenging final kilometers. He highlights the endurance and climbing ability needed to succeed in the race, where strength often prevails over pure climbing skills.

By the Numbers
  • 1979: 20th
  • 1984: 1st
  • 1989: 1st
Yes, But

Kelly acknowledges that each victory in Liège-Bastogne-Liège posed unique challenges, whether winning in a sprint from a big group (1984) or outpacing a small breakaway group towards the finish (1989).

What's Next

The evolution of specialization among classic riders, moving towards 'cobble specialists' and 'Ardennes specialists,' marks a shift from the past when riders like Kelly competed across various terrains throughout the season, adapting to changing trends in competitive cycling.

Bottom Line

Sean Kelly's dominance in races like Liège-Bastogne-Liège exemplifies the versatility and strength required to excel in the classics, offering a testament to his enduring legacy as a cycling legend.