Leonardo Piepoli

Jersey yellow

Jersey yellow

Jersey yellow

Jersey yellow

Jersey yellow

Jersey yellow

Leonardo Piepoli is an Italian former professional road bicycle racer, born on September 29, 1971, in Sezze, Italy. Piepoli is best known for his climbing abilities, which made him one of the top mountain climbers in professional cycling during his career. He turned professional in 1995 and retired in 2009, leaving behind a career marked by notable victories as well as controversies.

Career

Piepoli's professional career began with the Italian team Navigare-Blue Storm in 1995. Over the years, he rode for several teams, including Banesto, where he achieved significant success. His prowess in the mountains was evident early on, and he became a key support rider in Grand Tours for team leaders, as well as achieving personal success.

One of the highlights of Piepoli's career was his victory on the 10th stage of the 2008 Tour de France, a mountainous stage that ended in Hautacam. This victory was a testament to his climbing skills and endurance. However, his career was not without its lows. In the same year, Piepoli was dismissed from his team, Saunier Duval-Scott, during the Tour de France due to his involvement in a doping scandal. This incident marked a significant downturn in his career.

Doping Controversies

In July 2008, following his stage win at the Tour de France, Piepoli was fired by his team for "violation of the team's ethics code." The dismissal came amidst a wider doping scandal involving his team. Later, it was revealed that Piepoli had tested positive for CERA, a third-generation EPO, during the Tour. In January 2009, he received a two-year ban from professional cycling, effectively ending his career.

Legacy

Despite the controversies, Piepoli's career is remembered for his exceptional climbing abilities and his contributions to his teams' successes in the mountains. His victories and efforts in the most challenging stages of the Grand Tours showcased his talent and determination. However, his involvement in doping has overshadowed these achievements for many cycling fans and critics.

Post-Cycling Life

After retiring from professional cycling, Piepoli has kept a low profile. Information about his post-cycling life is scarce, but it is known that he has occasionally participated in cycling-related events and activities.

See Also

• List of doping cases in cycling
• Climbing specialist