1978 Tour de France, Race Used Car Plaque, Race Winner – Bernard Hinault

1978 Tour de France
Race Winner Bernard Hinault

The 1978 Tour featured a showdown between Joop Zoetemelk, a three-time second-place finisher, and newcomer Bernard Hinault. Hinault, the reigning French Champion and 1978 Vuelta winner, claimed victory in his debut Tour, securing the top spot on the Paris podium for the first of his five Tour victories. Hinault’s strategic prowess was evident as he controlled the climbers and dominated the final Time Trial, securing the Yellow Jersey three days before the race’s conclusion. Freddy Maertens won the Green Points Jersey, and Mariano Martinez won the Polka Dot King of the Mountains Jersey.

In today’s racing, the race organizer cars, team vehicles, and other participants of the official race caravan have disposable stickers affixed to the windshield. Slipping a bit into the way back machine, there was a time when the cars had plaques attached to the front of the follow cars.

As with most things ephemeral, most plaques were promptly tossed in the trash once the race was finished. The ones that survived have become quite collectible.

Made of Plastic

Size: 19 1/4 x 9 1/2  inches  (49 x 24 cm)

Please Note: This plaque does have some damage and missing peices.
This is a one-of-a-kind item; please look carefully at the photos to determine the condition.