Alessandro Ballan

Alessandro Ballan Varese 2008

Alessandro Ballan (Tour de France 2009 - Stage 17)

2012 Ronde van Vlaanderen, Alessandro Ballan (7081312841) (cropped)

Jersey white

Jersey rainbow

Alessandro Ballan (born 6 November 1979) is a retired professional road cyclist from Italy. He is best known for winning the UCI Road World Championships in 2008 and the Tour of Flanders in 2007, two of the most prestigious one-day races in the sport.

Early Life and Career

Ballan was born in Castelfranco Veneto, Italy. He began his professional career in 2004 with the Lampre team, after showing promise as an amateur cyclist. His early career was marked by consistent performances in the Classics, where he demonstrated his abilities as a strong rouleur and classics specialist.

Professional Achievements

Ballan's breakthrough came in 2007 when he won the Tour of Flanders, a monument in cycling, showcasing his strength over the cobbles and hilly terrain. The following year, he achieved the pinnacle of his career by winning the UCI Road World Championships in Varese, Italy. Wearing the rainbow jersey, Ballan continued to perform well in one-day races and stage races, including a stage win in the Vuelta a España.

Throughout his career, Ballan was known for his attacking style, often making bold moves in the final kilometers of races. He was also a part of the Italian national team on several occasions, representing his country with distinction at the World Championships and the Olympic Games.

Teams

Ballan rode for several teams throughout his career, including:

• Lampre (2004–2008)
• BMC Racing Team (2010–2012)

His time with BMC Racing Team was marred by health issues and a suspension related to a doping investigation, which significantly impacted his career.

Controversy

In 2012, Ballan was suspended by his team due to his involvement in a doping investigation known as the Mantova case. He was eventually banned for two years, which sidelined him for the 2013 and 2014 seasons. Ballan has always denied any wrongdoing.

Retirement

Ballan announced his retirement from professional cycling in 2014, after struggling to return to his previous form following his suspension. Post-retirement, he has been involved in various cycling-related activities, including commentary and participating in gran fondo events.

Legacy

Alessandro Ballan's career is remembered for its high points, such as his World Championship victory and his win at the Tour of Flanders. Despite the controversies that marred the latter part of his career, his achievements in the sport are celebrated by fans and peers alike.