Francesco Moser

Francesco Moser was born on June 19, 1951 in Giovo, a village in Trentino, Italy. He grew up in a family with strong ties to cycling; his brothers Aldo, Enzo, and Diego also became professional cyclists. Francesco would go on to become one of the most dominant road cyclists of his era, known for his time-trialing and pursuit racing abilities.

Francesco Moser won the World Road Race Championship on August 24, 1975, held in Mettet, Belgium. This race brought together the world's best cyclists, and Moser's victory marked him as the world champion. Winning this prestigious title was a significant moment in Moser's career, showcasing his talent and placing him among the top cyclists globally. He became a national hero in Italy following this win.

Francesco Moser won the prestigious Milan-San Remo classic on March 26, 1977. This victory marked a significant milestone in his career as he showcased his strength and tactical acumen. Known as one of the "monuments" of cycling, the Milan-San Remo race is a grueling test of endurance and skill, and Moser’s triumph solidified his reputation as one of the top cyclists of his time.

On April 9, 1978, Francesco Moser won the Paris-Roubaix, one of the oldest and most challenging one-day professional cycling races, famous for its rough terrain and cobblestones. This victory was the first of three consecutive victories at Paris-Roubaix, solidifying Moser's reputation as a master of this race. Paris-Roubaix is often referred to as the "Hell of the North" due to its difficulty.

On April 8, 1979, Francesco Moser won the Paris-Roubaix for the second time, repeating his previous year's success in this iconic race. Known for its grueling cobblestone sections, the race is one of cycling's toughest classics. Moser's victory demonstrated his affinity for the demanding conditions of Paris-Roubaix and his prowess in one-day classic races. He would again win in 1980, completing a hat-trick of victories.

Francesco Moser completed his remarkable run at the Paris-Roubaix by winning the race for the third consecutive year on April 13, 1980. This unprecedented hat-trick of victories at one of the most difficult classics in professional cycling highlighted Moser's exceptional skill and determination. His dominance in these races cemented his legacy as one of the greatest classics riders of all time.

Francesco Moser achieved a second victory in the Milan-San Remo, one of cycling's most prestigious one-day races, on March 21, 1981. Known for its long distance and challenging route, Milan-San Remo is a coveted win among professional cyclists, and Moser's ability to win it twice demonstrates his consistency and skill in classics racing. His victories in such races have made him a legendary figure in cycling.

On January 19, 1984, Francesco Moser broke the world hour record, cycling a distance of 51.151 kilometers (31.8 miles) at high altitude in Mexico City. This achievement was significant not only for its athletic merit but also for its technical innovation, as Moser used a specially designed bicycle with aerodynamic features that sparked debate over equipment technology in cycling.

Francesco Moser won the 1984 Giro d’Italia, one of cycling's Grand Tours, which concluded on May 28, 1984. This victory was controversial due to accusations of external pacing and technological assists. Moser has consistently emphasized his performance during time trials as a critical factor in his triumph. This win affirmed his place among cycling's elite, being one of the rare Italian cyclists to have won this prestigious title.

Francesco Moser retired from professional cycling on October 11, 1987. Over his career, he became one of the most successful and celebrated Italian cyclists, known for his versatility as a rider. Moser's legacy includes multiple victories in both one-day classics and stage races, along with his notable innovations in the technology and technique of cycling. He remains an influential figure in the sport, both in Italy and internationally.