Mario Cipollini, one of the greatest sprinters in cycling history, turned professional in 1989 and competed until 2005, with a brief return in 2008. Known for his raw speed and flamboyant personality, Cipollini amassed 191 victories, including 42 stage wins at the Giro d’Italia and 12 at the Tour de France, sharing the Italian record with Gino Bartali. His sprinting dominance made him a formidable force in multi-day races, though his struggles in the mountains often led to early withdrawals. Cipollini’s standout year came in 2002 when he secured victories in Milan-Sanremo, Gent-Wevelgem, and the UCI Road World Championships, proving his tactical prowess beyond sprint finishes. Riding for teams such as Del Tongo, Saeco, and Acqua & Sapone, he built a reputation not only as a prolific winner but also as a charismatic showman. His custom skinsuits, bold personality, and media-savvy approach made him one of the sport’s most recognizable figures. Often compared to historical icons like Julius Caesar and Machiavelli, Cipollini embodied ambition, strategy, and showmanship. While his selective race calendar and outspoken nature sparked controversy, his influence on the sport, particularly in terms of self-promotion and style, remains undeniable. Even after retirement, Cipollini’s legacy endures as one of the most colorful and dominant sprinters in cycling history.
#fashion #cycling #bike #lancearmstrong #ironman #runningfashion #runclub #grailed #713mag #seedsus #vogue #humanbody #athleticwear #nike #713studios