Gianni Savio (76) passes away - Legendary Italian manager led Colombia to it's only World title and discovered talents like Egan Bernal and José Rujano

Gianni Savio is a named that has marked the cycling world more than most. The Italian manager has passed away this Monday after long-term illness, but his legacy will remain in the sport after he spent decades at the head of one Italian team that remains until this day.

Savio is one of the longest-standing figures in the sport, having started his career in the 80's and in 1996 he became manager of the then called Glacial - Selle Italia which would be the structure that marked his career. Over the years the team had many names but it is most commonly known as the Androni team, currently termed GW Erco Shimano, a continental team with a Colombian license.

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Savio had close ties with South America, having been a national coach for Colombia and Venezuela, having sponsors for his team coming from the region and actively scouting some of the best climbers in the world from this area. In 2002 Santiago Botero became World Champion under the guidance of Savio as a DS at the time-trial event, Colombia's first and only World title in men's elite racing. Riders such as Egan Bernal and José Rujano who stand the test of time were also discovered and given a chance at Savio's team. Throughout the years, many other quality riders passed by the team, who have often participated and won stages at the Giro d'Italia.

CyclingUpToDate would like to extend it's condolences to friends and family of Gianni.

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