Few names in sports spark as much debate as Lance Armstrong. Once hailed as the greatest cyclist of all time—the GOAT—Armstrong’s story is one of triumph, scandal, and redemption. From his legendary Tour de France victories to his infamous doping scandal, the question remains: Is Lance Armstrong still the best cyclist ever? Let’s explore his legacy, his life today, and how he continues to shape the world around him.
Is Lance Armstrong the GOAT?
In terms of pure dominance, Lance Armstrong redefined professional cycling. Between 1999 and 2005, he won an unprecedented seven consecutive Tour de France titles, a feat unmatched in the sport’s history. His remarkable comeback after surviving advanced testicular cancer made him a symbol of determination and hope.
However, Armstrong’s status as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) is complicated. In 2012, he was stripped of all his Tour de France titles after the USADA (U.S. Anti-Doping Agency) concluded he had used performance-enhancing drugs, including EPO (erythropoietin). While his athletic achievements were monumental, his legacy remains polarizing.
Lance Armstrong and EPO: The Doping Scandal That Shook Cycling
The words Lance Armstrong and EPO are forever linked. EPO is a hormone that boosts red blood cell production, improving endurance—an advantage in grueling cycling races. Investigations revealed that Armstrong not only used EPO but also ran a sophisticated doping program within his team.
In 2013, he publicly admitted to using banned substances during an interview with Oprah Winfrey, ending years of denial. This confession marked one of the biggest scandals in sports history and reshaped anti-doping efforts in professional cycling.
What Is Lance Armstrong Doing Now?
So, what is Lance Armstrong doing now? After his fall from grace, Armstrong shifted his focus to entrepreneurship, podcasting, and philanthropy.
He hosts The Move, a popular podcast where he discusses cycling events, endurance sports, and life lessons from his career. Armstrong has also invested in various startups and wellness companies, including Onnit, a fitness and nutrition brand.
While he no longer competes, Armstrong remains deeply involved in the cycling community—commentating, analyzing races, and mentoring young athletes.
Is Lance Armstrong Still Involved with Livestrong?
The Livestrong Foundation, founded by Armstrong in 1997, became a global symbol of cancer awareness and survivor empowerment. The iconic yellow wristbands became one of the most recognizable charity symbols of the 2000s.
However, after his doping scandal, Armstrong stepped down from Livestrong’s board in 2012 to prevent his controversy from affecting the organization. Though he’s no longer directly involved, Livestrong continues to operate independently, supporting cancer patients and survivors worldwide.
Lance Armstrong and Melissa McCarthy: What’s the Connection?
Many fans are surprised to see searches for Lance Armstrong and Melissa McCarthy together. While the two have no known personal or professional partnership, Armstrong was referenced humorously in one of McCarthy’s projects. The mention highlights how deeply his name remains embedded in pop culture—even years after his retirement.
Is Lance Armstrong the Best Cyclist Ever?
Determining the best cyclist ever depends on your criteria. If it’s about natural talent, endurance, and mental toughness, Armstrong ranks near the top. But if fairness and integrity define greatness, riders like Eddy Merckx or Miguel Induráin may hold the crown instead.
Armstrong’s story is both inspirational and cautionary—a reminder that greatness achieved through questionable means carries lasting consequences.
FAQs About Lance Armstrong
1. Is Lance Armstrong still involved with Livestrong?
No. He stepped down from Livestrong’s board in 2012 but continues to support cancer awareness efforts privately.
2. What is Lance Armstrong doing today?
He hosts the The Move podcast, invests in wellness brands, and participates in cycling commentary and analysis.
3. Did Lance Armstrong admit to using EPO?
Yes. In 2013, Armstrong confessed to using EPO and other performance-enhancing drugs during his Tour de France victories.
4. Why is Lance Armstrong called the GOAT?
Despite his scandals, many still view his physical performance, comeback story, and dominance in cycling as unmatched—earning him the GOAT label among some fans.
5. What’s the story behind Lance Armstrong and Melissa McCarthy?
Their connection is mostly pop-cultural; McCarthy referenced Armstrong in a comedic context, underscoring his ongoing presence in public consciousness.
Final Thoughts
Lance Armstrong’s journey from champion to controversial figure remains one of the most fascinating sagas in sports history. Whether you view him as the GOAT or as a cautionary tale, there’s no denying his impact on cycling, cancer awareness, and modern sports culture.
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