Gilberto Simoni

Gilberto Simoni mtb

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Gilberto Simoni (born August 25, 1971, in Palù di Giovo, Trentino) is a retired Italian professional road bicycle racer. He is best known for his climbing ability, which made him one of the best climbers in the world during his career, and for winning the Giro d'Italia twice.

Career

Simoni's professional career began in 1994 with the Jolly Componibili-Club 88 team. Over the years, he rode for several teams, including Lampre, Saeco, and Selle Italia. However, it was during his time with Saeco that he achieved his most significant successes.

In 2001, Simoni won his first Giro d'Italia, a victory that was marked by his exceptional performance in the mountains. He repeated this feat in 2003, solidifying his reputation as one of the premier climbers in the professional cycling world. Besides his Giro victories, Simoni also had notable performances in other Grand Tours and one-day races, although the Giro d'Italia remained his primary focus and the race where he achieved his greatest successes.

Simoni was known for his rivalry with other climbers of his era, including fellow Italian Marco Pantani and the Spanish cyclist Roberto Heras. These rivalries added drama to the mountain stages of the races they competed in, particularly the Giro d'Italia, and are remembered as some of the most exciting moments in cycling during the early 2000s.

Notable Achievements

• 1st, Giro d'Italia (2001, 2003)
• 1st, Giro del Trentino (2003)
• Multiple stage wins in the Giro d'Italia

Simoni also competed in the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España, where he showcased his climbing skills, although he did not achieve the same level of success as he did in the Giro d'Italia.

Retirement

Gilberto Simoni announced his retirement from professional cycling in 2010. Since retiring, he has remained involved in the sport, participating in mountain bike races and other cycling events. His legacy in professional cycling, particularly at the Giro d'Italia, is marked by his exceptional climbing ability and his competitive spirit.

Legacy

Simoni's career is remembered for his climbing prowess and his contributions to Italian cycling. He is considered one of the best Italian climbers of his generation, and his duels in the mountains of the Giro d'Italia have entered cycling lore. Simoni's dedication to the sport and his achievements have inspired many young cyclists in Italy and around the world.