A professional cyclist who won the Giro d'Italia twice and finished on the podium in the Tour de France multiple times, known for his climbing abilities.
Ivan Basso, nicknamed "Ivan the Terrible," is a former Italian professional road bicycle racer who dominated the sport in the early 21st century. With two Giro d'Italia titles under his belt, Basso is considered one of the strongest stage race riders in the history of professional cycling.
Born on November 26, 1977, in Gallarate, Italy, Basso grew up next door to Claudio Chiappucci, a former three-time stage winner in the Tour de France. As an amateur, Basso finished second in the road race at the 1995 UCI Juniors Road World Championships and won the under-23 road race at the 1998 UCI Road World Championships.
Basso turned professional with Davide Boifava's Riso Scotti-Vinavil team in 1999, where he rode his first Giro d'Italia. Although he didn't finish the three-week race, he made it a priority to win it someday. In 2000, with the team now called Amica Chips-Tacconi Sport, he won his first professional victories in the RegioTour.
In 2006, Basso won his first Giro d'Italia title with Team CSC, solidifying his status as a top contender in the sport. However, in 2007, he admitted to planning the use of blood doping and was suspended for two years. His suspension ended on October 24, 2008, and he returned to racing two days later in the Japan Cup, where he placed a close third behind Damiano Cunego and Giovanni Visconti.
Despite the controversy, Basso bounced back in 2010, winning his second Giro d'Italia title with Liquigas-Doimo and winning two stages along the way.
Basso's career is a testament to his dedication and perseverance in the face of adversity. He is widely regarded as one of the best mountain riders in the professional field, and his two Giro d'Italia titles cements his place in the history of the sport.
Basso's legacy extends beyond his impressive palmares. He has inspired a generation of cyclists with his grit and determination, and his story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, redemption is possible.
54 Years Old
A legendary cyclist who won the Tour de France a record seven consecutive times, but was later stripped of his titles due to a doping scandal.
52 Years Old
German cyclist who won the Tour de France in 1997 and was a key rival to Lance Armstrong, earning him the nickname "Der Kaiser" (The Emperor). He's also known for his doping scandals and subsequent bans.
44 Years Old
A dominant force in professional cycling during the 2000s, winning the Giro d'Italia and multiple stages in Grand Tours. Known for his attacking style and versatility on various terrains.
45 Years Old
Professional road racing cyclist, winning stages in all three Grand Tours, including three stages in the Tour de France. Known for his sprinting abilities and consistency.
52 Years Old
Professional road cyclist who won 22 stages in the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia, earning the nickname "Ale-Jet" for his sprinting prowess.
