Matteo Rabottini

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Matteo Rabottini (born 14 August 1987) is an Italian former professional road bicycle racer, who competed professionally between 2008 and 2014. Rabottini is best known for his victory in the 2012 Giro d'Italia, where he won the 15th stage and was awarded the King of the Mountains jersey, a classification for the race's best climber.

Career

Rabottini's professional career began in 2008 with the U.C.I. ProTeam Farnese Vini-Selle Italia. He quickly established himself as a promising climber within the professional peloton. His early career was marked by aggressive riding and numerous breakaways, a style that would eventually lead to his most significant career victory.

2012 Giro d'Italia

The highlight of Rabottini's career came during the 2012 Giro d'Italia. On the 15th stage, Rabottini showcased his climbing abilities and determination by winning the stage after a long solo breakaway. Despite a crash on a descent with less than 30 kilometers to go, he managed to maintain his lead and secure the stage win. This victory not only earned him the stage win but also propelled him to the top of the King of the Mountains classification, which he successfully defended until the end of the race. Rabottini's performance in the 2012 Giro d'Italia was a testament to his strength as a climber and his fighting spirit.

Doping Suspension

Rabottini's career faced a significant setback in 2014 when he tested positive for EPO (Erythropoietin), a banned performance-enhancing drug. As a result, he was handed a two-year suspension from professional cycling. This incident marked a turning point in his career, overshadowing his previous achievements and leading to questions about the prevalence of doping in cycling.

Post-Cycling Career

Following his suspension, Rabottini's presence in professional cycling diminished. Information about his activities post-cycling is limited, reflecting the challenges athletes often face after controversies such as doping suspensions.

Legacy

Matteo Rabottini's career is a complex narrative of triumph and controversy. His victory in the 2012 Giro d'Italia and subsequent doping suspension highlight the highs and lows athletes can experience. Rabottini's story serves as a reminder of the pressures in professional sports and the consequences of doping.