Stefano Garzelli

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Stefano Garzelli (born July 16, 1973) is a retired Italian professional road bicycle racer. He is best known for winning the Giro d'Italia in 2000 and for his competitive performances in other Grand Tours and one-day cycling races. Garzelli's career spanned from 1997 to 2013, during which he rode for several top teams and was known for his climbing ability and tactical acumen.

Career

Garzelli turned professional in 1997 with the Mercatone Uno team, where he was initially a domestique for Marco Pantani, one of the leading cyclists of that era. His breakthrough came in 2000 when he won the Giro d'Italia, one of cycling's three-week-long Grand Tours. This victory was highlighted by his strong performance in the mountains and time trials, showcasing his all-around capabilities.

Following his Giro win, Garzelli continued to achieve success in various competitions. He won stages in the Vuelta a España and secured victories in several one-day races and shorter stage races. His ability to perform well in both the mountains and time trials made him a versatile rider.

Throughout his career, Garzelli faced and overcame challenges, including a suspension in 2002 for a positive doping test during the Giro d'Italia. He returned to racing and continued to compete at a high level, demonstrating resilience and dedication to the sport.

Garzelli's racing style was marked by his aggressive tactics, especially in the mountains, where he was often seen attacking his rivals. He was also a skilled descender, which allowed him to gain time on his competitors in technical sections of races.

Major Achievements

- 2000: 1st Overall, Giro d'Italia - Multiple stage wins in the Giro d'Italia - Stage wins in the Vuelta a España - Victories in one-day races and shorter stage races

Post-Racing Career

After retiring from professional cycling in 2013, Garzelli transitioned into a career as a cycling commentator and analyst. He has worked for various Italian broadcasting networks, sharing his insights and expertise on the sport. Garzelli is also involved in promoting cycling and encouraging young talents through cycling academies and development programs.

Legacy

Stefano Garzelli is remembered as one of Italy's prominent cyclists of his era. His victory in the 2000 Giro d'Italia and his competitive spirit left a lasting impact on Italian cycling. Garzelli's career is a testament to his resilience, versatility, and tactical intelligence in the peloton.