Paolo Savoldelli

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Paolo Savoldelli (born 7 May 1973) is a retired Italian professional road bicycle racer known for his descending skills and his victories in the Giro d'Italia, one of cycling's Grand Tour races. Savoldelli, nicknamed "Il Falco" (The Falcon) for his remarkable descending ability, had a career that spanned over a decade, during which he achieved significant success in stage races and one-day events.

Career

Paolo Savoldelli turned professional in 1996 with the Roslotto-ZG Mobili team. Over the years, he rode for several teams, including Saeco, T-Mobile, and Astana. His major achievements include winning the Giro d'Italia in 2002 and 2005, showcasing not only his descending skills but also his time-trialling and climbing abilities.

Giro d'Italia Victories

In 2002, Savoldelli claimed his first Giro d'Italia victory, demonstrating his all-around capabilities. He took the lead in the crucial mountain stages and defended his pink jersey against all challenges. His second Giro victory in 2005 was even more dramatic. Savoldelli managed to overturn a significant time deficit in the final week, securing his win in the penultimate stage's individual time trial.

Other Notable Achievements

Apart from his Giro victories, Savoldelli also had notable performances in other races. He won stages in the Tour de Suisse and the Tour de Romandie, and finished in the top ten of the Tour de France. His ability to excel in both individual time trials and mountain stages made him a versatile rider.

Post-Racing Career

After retiring from professional cycling in 2008, Paolo Savoldelli has remained active in the cycling community. He has worked as a television commentator and analyst, sharing his insights and experiences. Savoldelli has also participated in various cycling events and charity rides, staying connected with his passion for cycling.

Legacy

Paolo Savoldelli's legacy in professional cycling is marked by his exceptional descending skills, which earned him the nickname "Il Falco." His victories in the Giro d'Italia and performances in other major races have made him a respected figure in the sport. Savoldelli's career is a testament to the importance of versatility and determination in achieving success in professional cycling.