On September 7, 2026, a mural located at the intersection of Mont‑Royal Avenue and Saint‑Urbain Street in Montreal was altered to feature a portrait of professional cyclist Michael Woods. The change removed the earlier image that had honored fellow Quebec rider Hugo Houle.
The original artwork was created in 2025. It was intended to commemorate Houle’s victory in a stage of the 2022 Tour de France, a milestone that highlighted his achievement on the international cycling stage. The mural’s placement on a busy corner made it a visible reminder of the local athlete’s success.
The updated version now depicts Michael Woods, another cyclist from Quebec. While the new mural does not specify a particular accomplishment, its presence signals a shift in the community’s visual tribute from one provincial rider to another. The replacement was carried out on the same site, preserving the mural’s location at the Mont‑Royal Avenue and Saint‑Urbain Street corner.
Both cyclists have represented Quebec in professional cycling, and the mural’s evolution reflects ongoing recognition of the province’s contribution to the sport. The timing of the alteration, occurring a year after the original installation, suggests a decision to refresh the public artwork to acknowledge Woods.
The mural’s transformation was observed on the day it was changed, with the new portrait becoming part of the urban landscape of Montreal. The site continues to serve as a point of reference for residents and visitors interested in the city’s sporting heritage.
No further details regarding the artists, sponsors, or reasons behind the replacement have been provided beyond the factual timeline and the subjects involved.