No-one expected the 'Lewis Hamilton of the skies' to generate nearly two million dollars. According to Pigeon Paradise, eventually "it became clear that Armando would be the most expensive pigeon ever sold in an online auction."
Racing pigeons can reach the speed of above 80km/h (more than 50mph) over 1,000 kilometre distances. Armando's unusual skills and monetary worth left an impression on many, who took to social media to manifest their feelings.
A steady diet of moules-and-frites pavement sick does obviously wonders for the stamina
— Stuart Condie (@StuartLCondie) March 19, 2019
Meet Armando, the million pound pigeon. After 0800, @BBCBreakfast will be joined by @official_rpra and one of their feathered friends to learn why Armando — described as the "Lewis Hamilton of pigeon racing" is one of a kind. #pigeon pic.twitter.com/dqxxKeIwCS
— Caroline Rigby (@Carigby) March 19, 2019
— . (@AlmostAlwaysHi) March 19, 2019
— Ginette Smith (@Ginette74115206) March 19, 2019
An expensive lunch pic.twitter.com/eTbSmh18dU
— Old Stinker (@old_stinker) March 19, 2019
Armando belonged to Belgian breeder Joel Verschoot, whose stables are based in Ingelmunster, west of Belgium. Racing pigeons by releasing them and having them compete in flying back home is a tradition in Belgium, northern France and the Netherlands.
