What Is 1959 Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré

Overview

The 1959 Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré was a pivotal stage race in professional cycling, serving as a key preparatory event for the Tour de France. Held annually in the Dauphiné region of southeastern France, it attracted top riders aiming to test form and fitness ahead of July’s Grand Tour.

Staged from June 10 to June 17, 1959, this 7-stage race covered approximately 1,240 kilometers, featuring mountainous terrain ideal for climbers. The event was won by Spanish climber Federico Bahamontes, known as the 'Eagle of Toledo,' who solidified his reputation as a master of high-altitude racing.

• Stage count: The 1959 edition consisted of 7 stages, beginning in Saint-Étienne and finishing in Grenoble, with routes designed to challenge endurance and climbing ability.
• Winner:Federico Bahamontes claimed the overall victory, marking a significant achievement in his career and boosting his confidence before the Tour de France.
• Distance: The total race distance was approximately 1,240 kilometers, with stages averaging around 177 km each, testing both sprinters and climbers.
• Time gap: Bahamontes won the general classification by over 3 minutes ahead of second-place finisher Jacques Anquetil, showcasing dominant climbing prowess.
• Historical role: The Dauphiné has long been used as a Tour de France tune-up, and in 1959, it helped riders fine-tune strategies and pacing for the upcoming Grand Tour.

How It Works

The Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré is structured as a multi-stage road cycling race, combining time trials, flat stages, and mountain climbs to test versatility. Each stage contributes to the general classification, with time bonuses and mountain points adding strategic depth.

• General Classification: The overall winner is determined by the lowest cumulative time across all stages, with Bahamontes excelling in this metric in 1959.
• Stage Wins: Individual stage victories are awarded to the first rider across the finish line, with sprinters and climbers vying for daily honors.
• Mountains Classification: Points are awarded at summit finishes, and in 1959, Bahamontes dominated this category due to his climbing expertise.
• Time Trials: The 1959 race included at least one individual time trial, allowing riders to gain time based on solo performance against the clock.
• Team Strategy: Riders competed as part of national or trade teams, with support roles like domestiques protecting leaders and fetching supplies.
• Route Design: The 1959 course traversed the Alps and pre-Alpine regions, including climbs like the Col du Lautaret, testing endurance and altitude adaptation.

Comparison at a Glance

Comparing the 1959 Dauphiné to modern editions highlights changes in distance, technology, and competition structure.

While stage count and distance remain similar, modern riders benefit from aerodynamic equipment, advanced training, and nutritional science, leading to faster average speeds. The 1959 race, however, laid groundwork for today’s strategic depth and international prestige.

Why It Matters

The 1959 Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré played a crucial role in shaping cycling history and rider legacies, particularly for climbers like Bahamontes. Its influence extends beyond results to the evolution of race preparation and mountain specialization in Grand Tours.

• Legacy of Bahamontes: His 1959 win reinforced his status as a climbing specialist, paving the way for his 1959 Tour de France victory later that summer.
• Tour de France Prep: The Dauphiné has remained a key indicator of Tour form, with 1959 setting a precedent for using it as a final tune-up.
• Spanish Cycling: Bahamontes' success elevated Spanish cycling on the international stage during a time dominated by French and Italian riders.
• Race Strategy Evolution: The 1959 edition highlighted the growing importance of mountain time gaps, influencing team tactics in stage races.
• Media Coverage: As a newspaper-sponsored event (by Le Dauphiné Libéré), it expanded regional media influence in sports reporting.
• Historical Benchmark: The 1959 race serves as a reference point for analyzing performance trends across six decades of professional cycling.

Today, the Critérium du Dauphiné remains a cornerstone of the UCI World Tour, with its 1959 edition remembered for Bahamontes’ dominance and the race’s enduring role in cycling tradition.