The polka dot sweater for the Mountain Kings - REDTED The leader of the mountain classification in the Tour de France has been rewarded with the polka dot jersey since 1975. Joop Zoetemelk was the first rider to shoulder him in 1975. However, the real mountain king of 1975 became Lucien van Impe. The 'Kleine van Mere' is the biggest 'retro' mountain king of the Tour, because he won this jersey no less than six times. With this, he matched the Spaniard Federico Bahamontes. Nor should we forget the French rider Richard Virenque. This 'Richard Lionheart' was the mountain king of the Tour de France no less than seven times. Lucien Van Impe & Richard Virenque This very striking, clown sweater was created by sports journalist and Tour boss Félix Lévitan.