Biniam Girmay
Biniam Girmay (born 2 April 2000 in Asmara, Eritrea) is a trailblazing rider for NSN Cycling team and one of the most exciting sprinters and classics specialists in the peloton. In 2022, he made history as the first Black African rider to win a Grand Tour stage. At the 2024 Tour de France, Girmay claimed the green jersey, becoming the first African rider ever to win the points jersey in the race. His success has made him a key figure in the globalisation of professional cycling. Find Biniam Girmay’s latest results, stats and race calendar on this page.
Biography of pro cyclist Biniam Girmay
Biniam Girmay is rewriting cycling history as the first African to win a major classic and Grand Tour stage. Known for his sprint-finishing punch and tactical instincts, the Eritrean star has risen to prominence with major wins at Gent–Wevelgem, the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France. His 2024 Tour, where he won three stages and the green jersey, was a landmark moment for African sport.
Early life and rise
Girmay was born in 2000 in Asmara, Eritrea. He began racing as a teenager and joined the UCI World Cycling Centre in 2018. After a silver medal at the 2021 U23 World Championships, he signed with Intermarché–Wanty, bringing his talent to the WorldTour.
Breakthrough performances
In 2022, Girmay won Gent–Wevelgem, becoming the first African to win a WorldTour classic. Weeks later, he won Stage 10 of the Giro d’Italia, marking a Grand Tour milestone for African cycling. Though forced to abandon after a podium champagne cork injury, his name was already in the history books.
Major results and highlights
Girmay has won stages in the Tour and Giro, as well as one-day races like Circuit Franco-Belge and the Surf Coast Classic. His crowning moment came in 2024 with three stage wins and the green jersey at the Tour de France, a first for an African rider.
Style and strengths
Girmay is a versatile finisher who excels on hilly sprints and rough classics. He has strong race intuition, excellent handling skills and a powerful but controlled sprint.
Role within the team
Within the NSN Cycling team, he is the undisputed leader for classics and Grand Tour sprints. He also plays a symbolic leadership role for African riders, inspiring teammates and rivals alike.
Personal life
Married to Selam with a young daughter, Girmay splits his time between Asmara and Nice. He remains closely tied to Eritrean cycling culture and is a hero in his home country. Known for his humility, he’s a role model both on and off the bike.
Salary Biniam Girmay
Girmay signed a three-year contract with NSN cycling team through 2028. His estimated salary exceeds €1 million annually, reflecting his growing global status.
Records and milestones
- First African rider to win a Tour de France stage
- First African rider to win a Grand Tour stage (Giro d’Italia)
- First African rider to win a WorldTour classic (Gent–Wevelgem)
- First African rider to wear and win the green jersey at the Tour de France
What's next for Girmay?
Girmay now aims for a Monument victory and a world title. He plans to continue leading his team in Grand Tours and classics, and remains focused on opening doors for more African cyclists in the years ahead.
