20 years without Marco Pantani - The best climber in cycling history

Twenty years have passed since cycling world lost one of its greatest riders. On Valentine's Day every year we remember Marco Pantani, who tragically died February 14th 2004 at just 34 years of age, leaving an indelible void in the hearts of cycling fans worldwide.

Pantani, nicknamed "The Pirate", was much more than an exceptional cyclist, he was a unique man who captivated an entire nation with his charisma and ability on the bike. To remember him is to go back to a time when his every pedal stroke was an act of heroism, a feat that will remain engraved in the collective memory of Italian cycling. We still know him as the last rider to have won both the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France in the same year, a feat he achieved in 1998 that elevated him to legendary status.

Pantani stood out not only for his sporting achievements, but also for his unique style and his passionate way of tackling the mountains. He was the climber par excellence, the man who challenged the limits of what was possible with every ascent. His legacy is measured not only in numerical victories, but in the admiration and affection he aroused in all those who watched him ride.

Today is a day to remember his greatness, we do not want to go into his sanction in the 1999 Giro d'Italia that ended his career and, in the long run, probably also his life. His end was shrouded in turbulence and obscurism that to this day has not yet been clarified (nor do we believe it ever will be). Today, as we say, we are left with the memory of the cheerful Marco who climbed the mountain passes like no one else and who made many children like me learn to love the sport of two wheels.

Thank you, Marco.