Fausto Coppi

About

Fausto Coppi, born on September 15, 1919, in Castellania, Italy, was a legendary cyclist known for his exceptional endurance and climbing abilities. He earned the nickname "Il Campionissimo" or "Champion of Champions" due to his numerous victories. Coppi's career was marked by significant achievements, including five Giro d'Italia wins and two Tour de France titles. He was the first cyclist to win both the Giro and Tour in the same year, accomplishing this feat in 1949 and 1952. Coppi's success extended beyond grand tours, with wins in the Milan–San Remo, Paris–Roubaix, and the World Championship in 1953. His rivalry with Gino Bartali captivated Italy, symbolizing contrasting cultural and regional identities. Despite facing personal controversies and health issues, Coppi remains an iconic figure in cycling history. His career was interrupted by World War II, during which he was a prisoner of war. Coppi passed away on January 2, 1960, but his legacy continues to inspire cyclists worldwide.