PEUGEOT-ESSO-MICHELIN
The history of cycling is marked by teams that have left an indelible imprint, but few evoke the same magic and admiration as the Peugeot-Esso-Michelin team. This name represents more than just a team — it is a symbol of an era where tradition, innovation, and passion merged to create unforgettable achievements.
Origins and sponsors
Founded in the early 20th century, Peugeot-Esso-Michelin is one of the longest-running teams in cycling history. The partnership with Michelin was a game-changer: thanks to cutting-edge tire technology, Peugeot ensured top-tier performance and unmatched road safety for its riders, proving that technology could indeed make the difference. In 1963, the team abandoned its traditional yellow-blue jersey in favour of the iconic black-and-white checkerboard design, inspired by the flags of motor racing. This striking pattern aimed to enhance visibility and recognition among television audiences, standing out clearly on black-and-white screens. The Peugeot jersey became unmistakable and instantly recognizable. Carefully designed in every detail, it remains a timeless icon of style and a symbol of belonging to a team that wrote legendary chapters in the history of the sport.
Triumphs and legends
The Peugeot-Esso-Michelin team featured some of the greatest cyclists of all time, riders who left an indelible mark on the sport. Eddy Merckx, "The Cannibal," wore this jersey in the early years of his extraordinary career. British champion Tom Simpson brought unforgettable moments of glory. Bernard Thévenet claimed Tour de France victories in 1975 and 1977, dethroning the legendary Merckx, while Robert Millar won the King of the Mountains classification in 1984. Each of them contributed to shaping the legend of a team that inspired dreams and passion. The Peugeot-Esso-Michelin team’s record is remarkable, boasting victories in Monument Classics such as Paris-Roubaix, Milan-San Remo, the Tour of Flanders, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, and Il Lombardia, alongside unforgettable successes in the Tour de France. The year 1977 was particularly golden, with an astonishing 35 victories, including Thévenet’s Tour de France triumph and Jean-Luc Vandenbroucke’s win at the GP de Fourmies.
The legacy
With the official closure of the team in 1986, the cycling world lost one of its most beloved squads. Yet, the magic of Peugeot-Esso-Michelin lives on. Its checkerboard jersey continues to inspire designers and cyclists alike. Today, the name Peugeot remains synonymous with excellence and tradition. Every fan and every enthusiast carries a piece of its history forward.
Santini Custom Series
Since 1965, we have dedicated our passion and expertise to cycling, creating kits for some of the greatest teams in history and for the champions who have written the most thrilling chapters of this sport. Every garment we produce embodies the experience and innovation we have refined over the years, designed to meet the needs of those who live cycling with the same intensity — whether professionals or amateurs. Today, we bring this heritage to you, ensuring that every ride is accompanied by the quality and dedication that define us.