Gastone Nencini

Stèle Gastone Nencini au passo della Futa

Gastone Nencini with wife 1957

Jersey pink

Jersey yellow

Gastone Nencini (1 March 1930 – 1 February 1980) was an Italian professional road racing cyclist who is best known for winning the 1957 Giro d'Italia and the 1960 Tour de France. Born in Barberino di Mugello, Italy, Nencini was a versatile rider, excelling in both climbing and time trialing, which made him a formidable competitor in Grand Tours.

Career

Nencini's professional career spanned from 1953 to 1965, during which he achieved significant success in various international cycling competitions. His major achievements include winning the overall classification of the Giro d'Italia in 1957 and the Tour de France in 1960. Nencini was known for his exceptional climbing abilities, which were crucial in his victories in these Grand Tours. In addition to his Grand Tour victories, he also won the Giro di Lombardia in 1954, showcasing his versatility as a rider.

In the 1957 Giro d'Italia, Nencini took the lead in the mountain stages, utilizing his climbing skills to gain a significant advantage over his rivals. His performance in the time trials also contributed to his overall victory. Similarly, in the 1960 Tour de France, Nencini demonstrated his all-around capabilities by performing well in both the mountain stages and the time trials, securing his first and only Tour de France victory.

Nencini was also known for his sportsmanship and his role as a mentor to younger cyclists, including Felice Gimondi, a fellow Italian who would go on to win the Tour de France, the Giro d'Italia, and the Vuelta a España.

Death and Legacy

Gastone Nencini passed away on 1 February 1980 at the age of 49. His death was a significant loss to the cycling community, but his legacy lives on through his remarkable achievements and the respect he earned from his peers and fans alike. Nencini is remembered as one of Italy's cycling legends, and his contributions to the sport have inspired generations of cyclists.

Achievements

• 1957 Giro d'Italia - 1st Overall
• 1960 Tour de France - 1st Overall
• 1954 Giro di Lombardia - 1st

Nencini's career is a testament to his skill, determination, and sportsmanship, making him a revered figure in the world of professional cycling.