American cyclists have seen moments of incredible triumph and controversy, shaped by the powerful narratives of athletes who captured the world’s attention on and off the bike. From trailblazers who shattered racial barriers to champions later caught in doping scandals, these riders have defined what it means to push the limits—both ethically and athletically.
Here are some of the greatest cyclists from the U.S. in history with doping row:
Top 4 American Cyclists In History With Doping Row
Lance Armstrong
For years, Lance Armstrong was the face of resilience. Diagnosed with metastatic testicular cancer in 1996, he returned from the brink to win seven consecutive Tour de France titles from 1999 to 2005. His story of recovery, paired with the founding of the Livestrong Foundation, inspired millions.
Major Wins
7× Tour de France titles (1999–2005) — stripped in 2012
World Champion (1993)
Stage wins in multiple major tours
However, Armstrong’s legacy took a disastrous turn in 2012 when the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) concluded he had organised “the most sophisticated, professionalized and successful doping program that sport has ever seen.” Stripped of his titles and banned for life, Armstrong eventually admitted to doping in a 2013 interview.
Floyd Landis
Floyd Landis won the 2006 Tour de France in dramatic fashion, launching a historic comeback on Stage 17. But glory was short-lived. He tested positive for synthetic testosterone and was stripped of his title. After years of denial, Landis admitted to doping and became a whistleblower, playing a pivotal role in the investigation that ultimately brought down Armstrong.
Major Wins:
2006 Tour de France (initial winner, later stripped)
George Hincapie
George Hincapie was a heavyweight of American cycling, competing in 17 Tour de France races, more than any other American. Known as Armstrong’s most trusted domestique, Hincapie helped power multiple U.S. victories.
Though respected for his consistency and professionalism, Hincapie too admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs. His confession, while less publicized, further solidified the understanding that doping was not limited to a few stars but was embedded within the culture of elite cycling at the time.
Major Wins
17× Tour de France participant (a record for Americans)
U.S. National Champion (1998)
Multiple stage wins and classics victories
Also Read: UCI World Tour: Complete 2025 Road Cycling Calendar
Levi Leipheimer
Levi Leipheimer made his mark with stage race success, including winning the Tour of California three times and earning an Olympic bronze medal in 2008 Beijing Olympics. A brilliant climber and time-trialist, he was one of America’s most consistent Grand Tour contenders during the 2000s.
In 2012, Leipheimer accepted a six-month suspension after admitting to doping during his career. He currently remains active in the cycling community through events like the King Ridge GranFondo, promoting clean riding and community engagement.
Major Wins:
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3× Tour of California winner (2007–2009)
Olympic bronze medalist (2008 Time Trial)
2nd in 2008 Vuelta a España
