Italy is a hotbed of incredible cycling talent. From world-famous cyclists like Fabian Cancellara and Vincenzo Nibali to lesser-known greats like Rinaldo Nocentini and Diego Ulissi, there is no shortage of amazing cyclists from Italy.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the best cycling players in Italy and what makes them so great. From their professional achievements to their personal stories, we will explore how they have come to be some of the best in the world.
So, let’s take a look at some of the greats of Italian cycling.
1. Vincenzo Nibali
Vincenzo Nibali is a renowned Italian former professional road bicycle racer, who was active in the world of competitive cycling for many years. He began his professional career in 2005, and continued to race until the end of the 2022 season.
During his time as a professional racer, Nibali saw great success, including winning the Giro d’Italia in 2013, the Vuelta a España in 2010 and the Tour de France in 2014.
He also won the UCI World Championships in the road race in 2019, as well as other numerous victories in prestigious races around the world.
Nibali’s career was characterized by his relentless dedication to the sport, and his ability to stay competitive in the face of ever-changing challenges. He was known for his tactical prowess and was often seen as a leader in the peloton.
His career has been celebrated by the Italian cycling community, and he will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest cyclists of all time.
2. Fausto Coppi
Angelo Fausto Coppi was an Italian cyclist, widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time. He was renowned for his achievements in the years following the Second World War, and was given the title of Il Campionissimo, meaning ‘champion of champions’.
His incredible success was due to his all-round talent as a cyclist; he could excel in any discipline, from sprinting to time trialing and climbing.
His prowess in both climbing and time trialing was particularly remarkable, as these two disciplines require different skill sets and an ability to manage fatigue. Coppi was able to master both, proving himself to be one of the most talented athletes of all time.
3. Gino Bartali
Gino Bartali was an Italian road cyclist widely regarded as one of the top cyclists before World War II. He was given the nickname Gino the Pious and Ginettaccio as a testament to his strong moral values and his commitment to the sport.
During his career, he achieved a number of impressive feats, including becoming a two-time winner of the Giro d’Italia in 1936 and 1937 and winning the Tour de France in 1938.
His success at the Giro d’Italia was especially impressive, as he was the first Italian to ever win the race twice.
He was also one of the first cyclists to popularize the use of aero bars, which improve the aerodynamics of a cyclist’s position and reduce drag, thereby allowing them to move faster. Bartali was not only an outstanding cyclist but also a beloved figure in Italy.
His determination, grit and passion for the sport earned him the respect of his peers, and he was seen as a symbol of hope and perseverance in a time of great hardship.
4. Marco Pantani
Marco Pantani was one of the most celebrated road racing cyclists in history. He was renowned for his superior climbing skills, earning him the title of “The Great Climber”.
This was backed up by the records he set throughout his career, as well as the recognition he received from his peers. Pantani’s legacy is a testament to his influence on and success in the sport.
He won the Tour de France in 1998, becoming the first Italian cyclist to do so in nearly 40 years. He also won the Giro d’Italia in the same year, the first Italian to do so in over 60 years.
This is an incredible feat for any cyclist, let alone one who specializes in climbing. Other riders also paid tribute to Pantani’s skill, praising him as the greatest climber in history. Many of them have gone on to cite him as an inspiration for their own achievements.
This is a testament to how much impact Pantani made on the sport, and how well-respected he was within the cycling community. Marco Pantani’s legacy will remain forever in the sport of cycling.
His records, achievements, and recognition from other riders are a testament to his greatness as a climber and a cyclist. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest cyclists of all time.
5. Diego Ulissi
Diego Ulissi is a professional road bicycle racer from Italy. He started his professional cycling career in 2010 and has achieved a great deal of success in the sport since then. Ulissi is currently signed with the UCI World UAE Team Emirates.
Ulissi has won multiple stages in the Tour of Switzerland and Tour of Austria, as well as top-ten finishes in the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France. He has also won a number of one-day races, such as the Giro di Lombardia and Milan-Turin.
Ulissi is known for his all-around ability as a rider, with a good sprint finish and strong climbing skills. He is also a very experienced rider who is capable of competing in any type of race.
6. Alberto Bettiol
Alberto Bettiol is an Italian professional road racing cyclist who has been making waves in the cycling world. He currently rides for UCI WorldTeam EF Education–EasyPost.
Bettiol made his professional debut in 2014 but had to wait until 2019 for his first professional victory, coming at the prestigious Tour of Flanders.
His impressive performances earned him a spot at the 2020 Summer Olympics, where he competed in the Road race and Time trial events. He managed to impress in both events, coming close to podium finishes in each.
His performance at the Olympics has cemented his reputation as one of the top cyclists in the world.
7. Francesco Moser
Francesco Moser, nicknamed “Lo sceriffo”, is a renowned Italian former professional road bicycle racer who was active from the mid-1970s to the early 1980s.
He is well-known for his impressive accomplishments, most notably his win in the 1984 edition of the Giro d’Italia, an annual multiple-stage bicycle race primarily held in Italy, and his six total podium finishes in the race. Moser started his career in 1973, displaying a unique “cultured pedaling style”.
This style became his trademark and allowed him to stand out from the competition, making him one of the most successful riders of his generation.
Throughout his career, he won multiple stage races and one-day races, becoming one of the most decorated racers of his time. Moser’s achievements in the cycling world have earned him the respect of his peers and fans alike.
He is a beloved figure in Italy and continues to be remembered for his accomplishments on the bike.
8. Fiorenzo Magni
Fiorenzo Magni was an Italian professional road racing cyclist who competed in the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s. Born in 1920 in Novi Ligure, Piedmont, Italy, Magni was a three-time winner of the Giro d’Italia, the most important Italian stage race.
In addition, he won multiple stages of the Giro, the Tour de France, and the Vuelta a España, making him one of the most successful Italian cyclists of his time. In addition to his successes in road racing, Magni was also an accomplished track cyclist.
He earned multiple medals at the UCI Track Cycling World Championships and won the individual pursuit at the 1950 World Championships.
Magni was also a successful time trialist, winning the gold medal at the 1952 Olympics in Helsinki. Despite his impressive career, Magni was most often remembered for his courageous ride at the 1950 Giro d’Italia.
During this race, Magni fractured his shoulder and collarbone during a crash. Despite his injuries, Magni was determined to continue racing and he finished the race in third place.
This incredible feat has made Fiorenzo Magni a legend in the cycling world and an inspiration to cyclists everywhere.
9. Gastone Nencini
Gastone Nencini was a renowned Italian road racing cyclist who achieved many great accomplishments in his cycling career. Nicknamed “The Lion of Mugello”, Nencini was known for his incredible strength and endurance in the mountains.
He was an amateur painter and was often seen smoking a cigarette during races. He was especially praised for his fine descending skills, which were unmatched by any other cyclist. Nencini was born in the Tuscan region of Italy and began his career in cycling in 1950.
He won the 1957 Giro d’Italia and the 1960 Tour de France, the most prestigious cycling race in the world. His talent and determination made him a force to be reckoned with in the cycling world.
Nencini was also known for his friendly personality and his generosity towards others. Throughout his career, Nencini was regarded as one of the best all-rounders in the sport.
He was an excellent climber and descender, which made him an ideal cyclist for the hilly terrain of the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia. His strength and endurance in the mountains were unparalleled, as was his mastery of descending.
This made Nencini a formidable competitor and one of the best and most respected cyclists of his time. Nencini’s legacy lives on and he is still remembered fondly by cyclists and fans around the world.
He was a true champion of the sport and will always be remembered as one of the greatest cyclists of all time.
10. Ottavio Bottecchia
Ottavio Bottecchia was a professional cyclist from Italy who achieved international fame when he became the first Italian to win the Tour de France in 1924. He was an icon of cycling in his native country and a source of inspiration to many.
However, his life was tragically cut short when he was found unconscious and injured by a roadside several days later.
The exact circumstances of his accident remain unknown to this day, adding to the mystique of the tragic tale of Ottavio Bottecchia. Bottecchia had been a professional cyclist since before World War I, and he continued to race and win major competitions throughout the 1920s.
In 1924, he was the first Italian to win the Tour de France, which was a major feat in the cycling world.
He was an instant celebrity in his home country, and his success on the cycling circuit served to inspire many other Italian cyclists. Unfortunately, his life came to an abrupt end a few days after his Tour de France victory.
Bottecchia was found injured and unconscious by a roadside, and he succumbed to his injuries a few days later. The exact circumstances of his accident have never been revealed, and remain a mystery to this day.
There have been many theories as to what might have happened to Bottecchia, but none of them have been able to provide a definitive answer. The story of Ottavio Bottecchia is a tragic one and serves as a reminder of the fragility of life.
He was an inspiring athlete who achieved great success in the world of cycling, but his life was cut short in a mysterious and untimely manner. His death still remains a mystery, but his legacy as an Italian cycling icon lives on.
11. Attilio Viviani
Attilio Viviani is a professional cyclist from Italy who is currently part of the UCI ProTeam Team Corratec–Selle Italia. He is the younger brother of Elia Viviani, another professional cyclist who is part of the UCI World Team Ineos Grenadiers.
Attilio is a talented rider who has achieved impressive results in the past, including a win at the 2018 Giro della Toscana. He has also represented Italy in the UCI World Championships in both 2019 and 2020.
Elia, meanwhile, is a multiple-time Italian National Champion and a former stage winner at the Giro d’Italia. Both brothers have made a name for themselves on the professional cycling circuit and continue to be a source of pride for their country.
12. Niccolò Bonifazio
Niccolò Bonifazio is a professional cyclist from Italy. He currently competes in the UCI WorldTeam Intermarché–Circus–Wanty.
This team is registered as a UCI World Team, which is the highest level of professional cycling in the world. Bonifazio has enjoyed success in multiple disciplines, including road racing, track racing, and cyclo-cross.
His highest achievements include winning the 2016 UEC European Road Championships and the 2019 UCI Road World Cup.
He was also part of the Italian team that finished second in the 2018 UCI Track World Championships. Bonifazio’s career has spanned multiple teams, including Lampre–Merida, Trek–Segafredo, and Bardiani–CSF.
He has also competed in several one-day and stage races, such as the Giro d’Italia, Tour de France, Vuelta a España, and the Tour of California. His current team, Intermarché–Circus–Wanty, has enabled him to continue competing at the highest level of cycling.
He is part of a strong and experienced squad, which includes riders from across the world. This team has enjoyed success in both the one-day and stage races and has shown its strength in the Grand Tours. Niccolò Bonifazio is an Italian cyclist with a long and successful career.
He currently rides for UCI WorldTeam Intermarché–Circus–Wanty, which is one of the most respected teams in the world. He has enjoyed success in multiple disciplines and has competed in some of the most prestigious one-day and stage races.
With his current team, he continues to compete at the highest level of cycling.
13. Andrea Di Renzo
Andrea Di Renzo is a former professional racing cyclist from Italy. He raced professionally with the team Vini Zabù–KTM from 2020 to 2021. Before Andrea, his father, Marco Antonio Di Renzo, was also a professional cyclist, from 1996 to 2000.
This goes to show that the Di Renzo family have a strong passion for the sport of cycling. Andrea’s father’s career in cycling was likely an inspiration to him to pursue a career of his own in the sport.
Andrea has certainly achieved a great deal in his cycling career, and it is likely that his father was a source of inspiration and motivation for him.
14. Camillo Arduino
Camillo Arduino was an Italian cyclist who competed in the 1920 Summer Olympics. He was one of the few Italian athletes to take part in the Olympics that year, and he entered two events during the games.
Arduino competed in the men’s individual road race and the men’s team time trial. The men’s individual road race was contested over a distance of 300 kilometers and Arduino finished in 11th place.
In the men’s team time trial, Arduino rode with his teammates and they completed the race in a total time of 10 hours, 22 minutes, and 13 seconds, placing them in fourth place overall.
Although Arduino and his team didn’t win any medals, his performance was still impressive for the time period. Arduino’s involvement in the 1920 Summer Olympics was a major step forward for Italian cycling and it helped to put the sport on the international stage.
15. Damiano Cima
Damiano Cima is an Italian professional cyclist who currently rides for UCI ProTeam Gazprom–RusVelo. He has a younger brother, Imerio Cima, who is also part of the same team.
In May 2019, Damiano was named in the startlist for the 2019 Giro d’Italia and went on to win stage 18 of the race. This was a remarkable achievement for the Italian cyclist, as it marked the first victory of his professional career.
His brother Imerio also rode in the Giro d’Italia, and the two brothers were able to share in the joy of Damiano’s victory. This accomplishment has put Damiano in the spotlight, and he is now seen as a rising star in the world of professional cycling.
16. Davide Bais
Davide Bais is a professional Italian racing cyclist who competes in the UCI ProTeam Eolo–Kometa. He is one of the leading riders in the sport and is known for his strong performances in both road and track cycling events.
His older brother Mattia is also a professional cyclist, making them one of the few sets of siblings to have both achieved success in the sport. Davide has a long list of accomplishments, including multiple championships and podium finishes in various cycling events.
He has also been part of the Italian National Team and has represented his country in international competitions.
Both Davide and Mattia have become well-known and respected figures within the cycling world, and their success is a testament to their hard work and dedication to the sport.
17. Marino Amadori
Marino Amadori is a former Italian cyclist who has a long history of successful participation in the Giro d’Italia, Italy’s most famous cycling race. He was a consistent competitor in the Giro, riding in a total of 12 editions of the race.
His best performance in the race was in 1979 when he achieved an impressive 11th place overall. This result is a testament to Amadori’s skill and endurance as a cyclist, making him one of the most successful riders of his era.
His achievements have gained him recognition within the Italian cycling community, where he is remembered as a talented and dedicated athlete.
18. Mario Cipollini
Mario Cipollini, often referred to as “Cipo” is a former professional cyclist from Italy. He is renowned for his impressive sprinting ability, his long-lasting reign of dominance, and his interesting personality.
Cipollini has earned the nicknames “Il Re Leone” and “Super Mario” and is widely regarded as the greatest sprinter of his generation. Cipollini’s sprinting ability was second to none.
He was often the first to cross the finish line in the majority of races he participated in, establishing his credentials as a sprinter.
His streak of dominance was unmatched, as he was able to consistently win races throughout his career. Cipollini was also known for his distinctive and flamboyant personality.
He was often seen wearing eye-catching clothing and flashy accessories, which made him stand out from his competition.
His enthusiasm for the sport, and his passion for victory, was infectious and endeared him to his fans. Cipollini’s impressive legacy and career have earned him two nicknames; “Il Re Leone” which means “The Lion King” and “Super Mario”, a tribute to his unwavering commitment to the sport.
To this day, Cipollini is still respected and admired as one of the best sprinters of all time. He is remembered for his sprinting prowess, his unrivaled dominance, and his larger-than-life persona.
19. Alessandro Petacchi
Alessandro Petacchi is an accomplished former professional road racing cyclist who had a successful career spanning nearly two decades, from 1996 to 2015.
He was known for his specialization as a sprinter, and his achievements include 48 grand tour stage wins and the titles of points jersey in three different grand tours.
In 2004, Petacchi won the points jersey in the Giro d’Italia, followed by the Vuelta a España in 2005 and the Tour de France in 2010. His success in these races cemented him as one of the most successful sprinters in the history of the sport.
His accomplishments have made him a highly respected figure in the cycling community.
20. Vittorio Adorni
Vittorio Adorni was an Italian professional road racing cyclist who had an illustrious cycling career. Adorni was born in 1939 in Piacenza, Italy, and began racing at the age of 14. He soon became one of the most successful competitive cyclists in Italian cycling history.
Adorni’s career highlights included winning the rainbow jersey at the 1967 UCI Road World Championships and the gold medal in the 1968 Summer Olympics. He also won the Giro d’Italia in 1965 and the Tour de France in 1968.
Adorni also achieved success on the track, where he won five six-day races between 1960 and 1967. After retiring from professional cycling in 1972, Adorni moved into coaching and mentoring young cyclists.
For this, he was awarded the prestigious Merit order of the Italian Republic in 1977. He also wrote several books about his racing career and his experiences as a coach. Adorni’s career achievements earned him a place in the Hall of Fame of Italian sport.
His legacy lives on today, not only in the memories of his admirers and fans but also in his many contributions to the sport of road racing. Vittorio Adorni was a true cycling legend and his legacy will remain for generations to come.
21. Ivan Basso
Ivan Basso is a well-known former professional road bicycle racer from Italy. He was active in the sport from 1999 to 2015 and represented seven different teams during that time.
His career began with the Mapei–Quick-Step team in 1999, and he then went on to race for Saeco, CSC, Liquigas, Discovery Channel, Liquigas–Cannondale, Tinkoff–Saxo, and finally Tinkoff.
During his career, Ivan Basso won many notable races, including the Giro d’Italia twice (in 2006 and 2010), the Tour de Suisse twice (in 2006 and 2007), and the Vuelta a España in 2008.
He also achieved numerous second and third-place finishes in other prestigious races. Off the bike, Ivan Basso was known for his philanthropy, founding the Ivan Basso Foundation in 2012.
The foundation’s mission is to provide education and support to disadvantaged children in his native Italy. Ivan Basso’s career was one of great success, and his legacy will not soon be forgotten.
22. Gianni Bugno
Gianni Bugno is a retired professional road racing cyclist from Italy. He has been active in the sport for over three decades, starting his career in the late 1980s.
Throughout his career, Bugno has achieved great success, winning several prestigious races including the Tour de France in 1990 and the Giro d’Italia in 1991. He also won the UCI Road World Championships twice, in 1991 and 1992.
His success also extended to team competitions, as he was part of the Mapei team that won the UCI ProTour in 2006. Bugno was renowned for his attacking style and was feared by his opponents, especially in the mountains.
He was also known for his fast sprints and aggressive attacks during the race. After his retirement in 2003, Bugno has remained involved in the sport, working as a cycling analyst and serving as president of the Cyclists’ Association, a trade union for professional cyclists.
He is also a member of the UCI Road World Championships. Bugno’s legacy in the sport has been immense, and he has inspired many cyclists to strive for success. He is still remembered and respected by many in the cycling community as an outstanding road racing cyclist.
23. Moreno Argentin
Moreno Argentin is an accomplished former professional cyclist and race director from Italy. Born in San Donà di Piave, a city in the province of Venice, he was an incredibly successful cyclist during his career.
He won stages in three of the most prestigious cycling races in the world: the Tour de France, the Giro d’Italia, and the Tour de Suisse. The Tour de France is the most famous cycling race in the world and is held annually in France.
It is considered to be the most prestigious cycling event, and many professional cyclists dream of competing in it.
Winning a stage in the Tour de France is an immense achievement, and Moreno Argentin was able to do it. The Giro d’Italia is another major cycling race held in Italy. It is known for its challenging terrain and mountainous routes.
Winning a stage in the Giro d’Italia is a great accomplishment and Moreno Argentin was able to accomplish it. The Tour de Suisse is one of the few remaining major cycling races held in Switzerland. It is known for its scenic routes and is very popular among cycling fans.
Winning a stage in this race is no easy feat, and Moreno Argentin was able to do it. Overall, Moreno Argentin was an incredibly successful cyclist and race director.
He was able to win stages in three of the most prestigious cycling races in the world and will always be remembered for his incredible accomplishments.
24. Mauro Finetto
Mauro Finetto was a professional cyclist from 2008 to 2022, making him one of the longest-running cyclists in professional sport. He began his career in 2008 and competed in several professional races throughout his career.
In 2011, he joined the UCI ProTour team Liquigas–Cannondale, one of the highest levels of road racing. This team was composed of some of the top cyclists in the world and Finetto was able to compete against them and even win some races.
He continued to ride for Liquigas-Cannondale until his retirement in 2022, making it one of the longest and most successful careers in professional cycling.
Finetto had a remarkable career that spanned over a decade and was able to compete against some of the best cyclists in the world.
25. Jacopo Guarnieri
Jacopo Guarnieri is an Italian professional cyclist who competes in road bicycle racing. He has been involved in the sport for his entire life and has recently joined UCI ProTeam Lotto–Dstny, a professional cycling team.
This team competes in some of the most prestigious races in the world, such as the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia.At the moment, Guarnieri is competing in some of the biggest racing events in the world.
He has already achieved several strong results in the UCI World Tour and is looking to make an even bigger impact in the years to come. Guarnieri is known for his strong sprinting power, and his ability to stay with the leaders in the mountain stages.
He is also known for his consistency, and his ability to stay in the mix during even the longest races. In addition to his professional cycling career, Guarnieri is also involved in several other activities.
He is currently working as a cycling coach and is also serving as an ambassador for the sport.
In addition, he is an active member of the Riders’ Council, which works to ensure that the rights of cyclists are respected and protected. Overall, Jacopo Guarnieri is an accomplished professional road cyclist who is making a big impact on the sport.
He is a talented rider who has achieved great success and is looking to make an even bigger impact in the future.
26. Luciano Armani
Luciano Armani was an Italian professional road bicycle racer who competed in the 1971 Tour de France. During the event, Luis Ocaña was leading the race after his impressive win in the 11th stage. However, Eddy Merckx was more than 10 minutes behind at this point.
After the rest day, Merckx decided to mount an attack from the start of the 12th stage, with the help of his teammate Rini Wagtmans. Merckx’s strategy was successful, as he eventually caught up and overtook Ocaña in the race.
His efforts led to him winning the 1971 Tour de France, becoming the first Belgian to do so.
27. Franco Bitossi
Franco Bitossi is a renowned former professional cyclist from Italy. He was born in the town of Camaioni di Carmignano, located in the Italian province of Prato.
Bitossi was active in the sport for more than two decades, with a career spanning from the early 1960s till the late 1980s. Throughout his career, Bitossi was an incredibly successful cyclist, winning numerous stages of the Giro d’Italia, the Tour de France, the Vuelta a España, the Giro di Lombardia, and the Milan–San Remo.
He also won the Italian National Road Race Championships in 1970, and the Coppa Agostoni in 1971. In addition to his success on the road, Bitossi also had a successful track cycling career, with multiple podium finishes in the Italian National Track Championships.
He was also part of the Italian team at the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games, where he finished in fourth place in the 4000m Individual Pursuit event. Bitossi’s cycling career has earned him a place in the history of the sport.
He is one of the most successful Italian cyclists ever, and his accomplishments will be remembered for generations to come.
28. Italo Zilioli
Italo Zilioli is an impressive figure in the world of cycling. Born in Turin, Italy, he enjoyed a successful career as a professional cyclist. Throughout his career, he won a total of 58 races, one of the most notable being the 1966 Züri-Metzgete.
Additionally, he won five stages of the Giro d’Italia, the most important cycling race in Italy. Despite his impressive success in cycling, he was never able to win the Giro d’Italia, something he surely would have wanted to accomplish.
However, his legacy as one of the greatest Italian cyclists of all time continues to live on.
29. Ernesto Azzini
Ernesto Azzini was an Italian professional road bicycle racer, who made history in the cycling world. Born in 1886, Azzini was the first Italian cyclist to win a stage in the Tour de France, in 1910.
He rode for the Atala-Continental team and was one of the most successful Italian riders of the early 20th century. His success in the Tour de France was a major accomplishment, as it had never been done before by an Italian cyclist.
Azzini was a dominant force in Italian cycling at the time, winning multiple races, including a stage in the Giro d’Italia.
He also finished second in the general classification of the Giro d’Italia in 1911. Azzini was known for his powerful sprints and his willingness to take risks. He often attacked early in the race and was usually successful in his efforts.
His tactics and strategies were admired by many of his colleagues, and he was respected by the cycling community. Azzini was an inspirational figure to the Italian cycling community and is remembered for his achievements.
His win in the Tour de France was a milestone in the history of the sport, and his legacy lives on as an example of the power of determination and hard work.
30. Valerio Agnoli
Valerio Agnoli is an experienced professional road bicycle racer from Italy. He has been in the cycling industry for many years and has had a successful career.
He is currently signed with the UCI WorldTeam Bahrain–Merida, which is a professional cycling team that competes in international cycling races. Agnoli has achieved many successes throughout his career, winning numerous races and championships.
He is a well-respected figure in the cycling community and is a symbol of inspiration to many aspiring cyclists. Agnoli is a dedicated and hard-working cyclist who is determined to reach his goals and represent his team in the best way possible.
He is committed to giving his all in each race and pushing himself to the limit to achieve success.
31. Corrado Ardizzoni
Corrado Ardizzoni was an Italian cyclist who represented his country at the 1936 Summer Olympics. He participated in both the individual and team road race events, competing alongside some of the world’s best cyclists at the time.
Ardizzoni was a talented rider who had achieved several successes prior to the Olympics, such as winning the Tour of Lombardy in 1935. At the 1936 Summer Olympics, Ardizzoni had a less-than-ideal performance, finishing near the back of the pack in both events.
Despite this, his participation at the Olympics was a remarkable accomplishment and marked a significant moment in his cycling career. After the Olympics, he continued to race competitively and enjoyed a successful racing career.
He went on to win several more races during his career, including the Italian National Cycling Championships in 1937. Overall, Corrado Ardizzoni was an important figure in Italian cycling history.
His participation in the 1936 Summer Olympics was a testament to his skill and determination as a cyclist, and he continued to race successfully after the event.
He was a talented rider who achieved several successes throughout his career and continues to be remembered for his accomplishments.
32. Ugo Agostoni
Ugo Agostoni was an Italian professional road bicycle racer. He was active in the sport from 1911 to 1924, during which time he achieved many successes. In 1912, while riding for the Peugeot cycling team, Agostoni won the Giro dell’Emilia, a stage in the Giro d’Italia.
He also won another stage in the Giro d’Italia in 1920. His accomplishments show that Agostoni was one of the leading riders of his time. He was able to compete at the highest level and consistently achieve success.
His career highlights demonstrate his talent and commitment to the sport. Agostoni’s legacy as a professional cyclist will continue to inspire future generations of riders.
33. Andrea Bagioli
Andrea Bagioli is a professional cyclist from Italy, who currently rides for UCI WorldTeam Soudal–Quick-Step. He is the younger brother of fellow cyclist Nicola Bagioli.
Andrea has already had a successful career, having participated in the 2020 Vuelta a España and the 2021 Vuelta a España. His most recent success was his 17th-place finish in the 2021 Vuelta a España, where he competed against some of the world’s top cyclists.
This impressive finish was a testament to Andrea’s talent and hard work. Andrea’s brother Nicola has also had a successful career, having competed in the 2020 Giro d’Italia and the 2021 Giro d’Italia.
The Bagioli brothers have proven to be successful competitors in the world of professional cycling, and they both have the potential for future success.
34. Fabio Sabatini
Fabio Sabatini is a professional Italian road bicycle racer who recently retired from competition at the end of the 2021 season. He spent the majority of his career riding for UCI WorldTeam Cofidis, where he served as a lead-out man for Elia Viviani.
Sabatini and Viviani had a long-standing relationship, as they started racing together in the Deceuninck–Quick-Step team and followed each other to Cofidis. As a lead-out man, Sabatini’s primary job was to provide support for Viviani during races.
He would often ride ahead of Viviani and act as a shield, blocking the wind and helping him maintain a higher speed.
He would also help create space for Viviani to pass other riders, leading the way and clearing a path for his teammate. Sabatini was highly respected in the cycling community for his tactical acumen and ability to read the race situation.
His years of experience as a professional rider made him an invaluable asset to his team and a leader among his peers. At the end of the 2021 season, Sabatini decided to call it quits and retire from competition.
He may not be racing on the road anymore, but his legacy will live on among the cycling community. His ability to read the race situation and provide invaluable support to his team will never be forgotten.
35. Santo Anzà
Santo Anzà is a former professional road racing cyclist from Italy.
He had a long and successful career, spanning over two decades, in which he not only rode for some of the top teams in the world but also achieved several major victories. Anzà was part of the UCI ProTeam Vacansoleil–DCM for the last years of his career.
This team was a Dutch-based UCI Professional Continental Team, and it gave Anzà the opportunity to compete in some of the biggest races in the world, such as the Giro d’Italia, the Tour de France, the Vuelta a España, and the UCI World Tour. Anzà had several impressive victories over the years, including a stage victory at the Giro d’Italia in 2009, as well as a stage victory at the Vuelta a España in 2010.
He also achieved a number of top-ten finishes in some of the biggest races in the world. Overall, Santo Anzà was a hugely accomplished road racing cyclist, and his career is one that will be remembered for a long time.
He achieved impressive victories and top-ten finishes in some of the toughest races in the world and was part of the UCI ProTeam Vacansoleil–DCM for the last years of his career. He has truly left an indelible mark on the world of professional cycling.
36. Aldo Moser
Aldo Moser was an Italian professional cyclist, who competed in the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia. He was born in Milan in 1931 and won the Italian National Road Race Championship in 1958 and 1959.
Moser was known for his daring and aggressive riding style, which earned him the nickname of the “Lion of Flanders”. In his career, he was a four-time winner of the Giro d’Italia and a two-time winner of the Tour de France.
He achieved the distinction of being the first cyclist to win both races in the same year, in 1964. He is also the only cyclist to have won three grand tours (the Giro d’Italia, the Tour de France, and the Vuelta a España) in the same year, a feat he accomplished in 1965.
Moser was a member of the legendary Italian cycling team, the Carrera Jeans–Vagabondi, which achieved great success in the 1960s and 1970s. He retired from professional cycling in 1976 and went on to become a coach for the Italian national team.
Moser was inducted into the Italian Sports Hall of Fame in 2000. He passed away in 2015 at the age of 83. Aldo Moser is remembered as one of the greatest cyclists in the history of the sport.
37. Gianbattista Baronchelli
Gianbattista Baronchelli is a former Italian professional road racing cyclist who has achieved a remarkable 94 victories in his career.
He was born in Ceresara, located in the Province of Mantua, and first made a name for himself in 1973 as an amateur when he won the prestigious Tour de l’Avenir and Baby Giro.
At this time, people were already predicting that he would one day become a winner of the Giro d’Italia.
38. Riccardo Riccò
Riccardo Riccò is an Italian professional road bicycle racer with a troubled history. In 2008, he was ejected from the Tour de France for doping violations. This resulted in a two-year suspension from competition, but he was allowed to return in 2010.
Since then, however, he has been involved in a number of doping controversies, culminating in a decision by a court of arbitration to suspend him from all competitions until 2024.
This is an unprecedented punishment for a professional cyclist and serves as a warning to others who may be tempted by the prospect of cheating. It also sends a strong message that doping will not be tolerated in professional cycling.
39. Michele Dancelli
Michele Dancelli was a professional Italian road racing cyclist who had a successful career in the sport.
He was renowned for his achievements and his main victories include winning the Milan–San Remo, the 1966 Flèche Wallonne, three editions of the Giro dell’Appennino, and two Trofeo Laigueglia.
In addition, he also achieved success in the Giro d’Italia, winning a total of 11 stages, as well as one stage in the 1969 Tour de France. Dancelli’s success is marked by his impressive resume of race wins, including multiple victories in the Giro d’Italia.
He won the Milan–San Remo in 1968, the 1966 Flèche Wallonne, and three editions of the Giro dell’Appennino. He also won two Trofeo Laigueglia titles. His success in the Giro d’Italia was also remarkable, as he won 11 stages throughout his career.
He also had a notable win in the 1969 Tour de France, where he won one stage. Overall, Dancelli was a successful road racing cyclist and his main victories include some of the most prestigious races in cycling.
He was a force to be reckoned with in his time and his victories are a testament to his skill and determination as a cyclist.
40. Marta Bastianelli
Marta Bastianelli is an Italian professional racing cyclist who has achieved great success in her career. She has won multiple titles, including the Italian National Road Race Championships in 2009 and the European Road Race Championships in 2014.
She currently rides for UCI Women’s World Team UAE Team ADQ, which is one of the most successful teams in the world. The team is based in the United Arab Emirates and competes in a variety of events, including the UCI Women’s World Tour.
Bastianelli is known for her aggressive and powerful style of racing, which has earned her numerous victories in her career. She is a formidable competitor who is capable of competing with the best in the world.
41. Fabio Casartelli
Fabio Casartelli was an Italian cyclist and Olympic gold medalist. He was an accomplished athlete with a bright future ahead of him.
On July 18th, 1995, however, tragedy struck when he was involved in a fatal crash on the descent of the Col de Portet d’Aspet, France during the 15th stage of the 1995 Tour de France.
The crash occurred when he hit a concrete culvert while traveling at a high speed, and the impact was so severe that he suffered a fatal head injury.
Casartelli’s death was mourned by the cycling community, and he was remembered as a dedicated and passionate cyclist who had achieved great success in his sport.
His legacy lives on in the memory of his friends and family, as well as in the Fabio Casartelli Memorial Trophy, which is awarded annually to the winner of the Giro d’Italia’s mountain stages.
Casartelli’s death was a great loss to the world of cycling, and his memory will live on for years to come. He was a talented athlete who was taken too soon, but his legacy will continue to inspire new generations of cyclists for many years to come.
42. Fabiana Luperini
Fabiana Luperini is an accomplished Italian professional cyclist. Born in Pontedera, Italy, she has achieved considerable success in her career, most notably by winning the Giro d’Italia Femminile a record five times.
Her four consecutive victories in 1995–1998 were particularly impressive, and her fifth win came ten years later in 2008. This is an incredible achievement and a testament to Luperini’s skill and dedication.
Her wins have cemented her place in cycling history, and she is rightly regarded as one of the greatest female cyclists of all time.
43. Damiano Cunego
Damiano Cunego is a former professional road racer who was born and raised in Italy. He is a very successful cyclist who has competed in some of the most prestigious events in the world.
He started his professional career in 2002 with the Saeco Macchine per Caffè team, where he had his first big successes. He then moved to the Lampre Merida team in 2008 and with them he won the Giro d’Italia, as well as several other races.
In 2015 he joined the Nippo–Vini Fantini–Europa Ovini team and he was able to add further successes to his long list of achievements. After 16 years as a professional cyclist, Damiano Cunego retired in 2018.
He has left behind a great legacy in the world of cycling and is remembered fondly by all those who have had the pleasure of watching him compete.
Conclusion
Italy has some of the best cyclists in the world. From Gino Bartali to Fabian Cancellara, Italy has produced some of the greatest riders in cycling history.
Italian cyclists are known for their work ethic and determination to succeed, which is evident in the many successes they have achieved. The world of cycling would be a much poorer place without the talent and skill of its Italian riders.
