Stefano Pirazzi

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Stefano Pirazzi (born 11 March 1987) is an Italian former professional road bicycle racer, who competed professionally between 2010 and 2017. Pirazzi is best known for his time with the Bardiani-CSF team, a UCI Professional Continental team. He specialized in climbing and breakaways, which made him a notable competitor in stage races and one-day classics that featured significant elevation changes.

Career

Pirazzi's professional career began in earnest in 2010 when he signed with the Bardiani-CSF team. Over the years, he developed a reputation as a breakaway specialist, often seen attacking on mountain stages or undulating profiles where his climbing abilities could shine.

Giro d'Italia

Pirazzi's most significant career achievement came in the 2014 Giro d'Italia, where he won the mountains classification, securing the blue jersey. This victory was a testament to his aggressive riding style and ability to perform on Italy's toughest climbs. In addition to his mountains classification victory, Pirazzi also sought stage wins, frequently joining breakaways in the hopes of a stage victory. His efforts in the Giro d'Italia made him a fan favorite, especially among Italian cycling fans.

Doping Suspension

In 2017, Pirazzi's career took a downturn when he, along with his Bardiani-CSF teammate Nicola Ruffoni, tested positive for growth hormones in out-of-competition controls conducted just before the start of the Giro d'Italia. As a result, both riders were suspended from the race and subsequently faced disciplinary actions from the UCI. Pirazzi received a four-year ban from professional cycling, effectively ending his career at the top level of the sport.

Post-Cycling Career

Following his suspension, Pirazzi has kept a low profile, with little information available about his activities post-cycling. The transition from professional athlete to life after sport can be challenging, especially under the cloud of a doping scandal.

Legacy

Stefano Pirazzi's career is a mix of notable achievements and controversy. While his victory in the mountains classification of the Giro d'Italia highlighted his talent and determination, his doping suspension serves as a reminder of the dark side of professional cycling. Despite the way his career ended, Pirazzi's aggressive racing style and willingness to attack made him a memorable figure in the peloton during his professional years.