Explore the life and cycling career of Fausto Coppi, one of cycling’s greatest masters.
Born in 1919, Fausto Coppi (or Angelo Fausto Coppi) was an Italian cyclist who rose to fame shortly after World War II. Nicknamed the Champion of Champions, Fausto cemented himself as one of the world’s greatest cyclists who dominated climbs, time trials, and sprints.
Five-time winner of the Giro d’Italia and two-time winner of the Tour de France, Fausto went on to win the World Championship in 1953. He’s also won the:
- Giro di Lombardia (5x)
- Milan-San Remo (3x)
- Paris-Roubaix
- La Fleche Wallonne
Coppi also set cycling’s hour record in 1942 with 45.798 kilometers. He also belonged to several cycling teams including Dopolavoro Tortona, Legnano, Bianchi, Bianchi-Pirelli, and several others. Throughout his career Fausto garnered the attention of the Italian public, and spectators across the globe, as he famously competed against fellow cycling superstar Gino Bartali.
Fausto Coppi sadly passed away in 1960 at the age of 40 in Tortona, Italy from malaria. He contracted the disease after an exhibition race in Africa and tragically passed after doctor’s incorrectly diagnosed his symptoms.