RIP Franco

The cycling world was shocked yesterday to learn of the passing of Classics master Franco Ballerini. The Italian was well known for his work both inside and outside the peloton. After a very successful pro career from 1986 and 2001, Ballerini went on to become the Italian national pro men’s road coach. In a freak accident, Franco died in an auto rally while serving as co-pilot for a friend. He will be forever known for his ’95 and ’98 victories in Paris-Roubaix, and for being a tireless promoter of the sport. Gone much too soon, he will be missed.

Merci Ballerini.