Michele Scarponi (25 September 1979 – 22 April 2017) was an Italian professional road cyclist known for his climbing ability, consistency in week‑long stage races and role as both a team leader and a valued teammate. He turned professional in 2002 and competed at the highest levels of road racing until his death in 2017. Scarponi combined steady endurance with tactical sense, which allowed him to take victories in important stage races and to support teammates in Grand Tours.

Career and racing style

Scarponi built a reputation as a specialist in hilly and mountainous terrain. He was often most competitive in races featuring sustained climbs and multi‑day formats rather than in one‑day classics or pure sprint stages. Over his career he alternated roles: leading smaller stage races and serving as a reliable lieutenant for designated team leaders in bigger events. His strengths included steady climbing, race intelligence and the ability to recover well between stages.

Major results and achievements

Among Scarponi's most notable results were overall victories and podiums in important stage races. He was declared the winner of the 2011 Giro d'Italia after the disqualification of Alberto Contador; this decision revised the official standings of that Grand Tour (2011 Giro d'Italia controversy). Other important successes included overall victories at the Tirreno–Adriatico (2009), the Volta a Catalunya (2011) and strong performances at the Giro del Trentino and other week‑long races.

  • Declared winner, 2011 Giro d'Italia (after disqualification of the original winner)
  • Overall winner, 2009 Tirreno–Adriatico
  • Overall winner, 2011 Volta a Catalunya
  • Stage and general classification results in races such as Giro del Trentino

Later career and role

In the later stages of his career Scarponi continued to target stage races and to play a supporting role in Grand Tours. He was respected for his professionalism and experience, which younger riders and teammates often cited as valuable in race preparation and execution. Even in 2017, shortly before his death, he remained active in competition, riding in events such as the Tour of the Alps.

Death and legacy

Scarponi died on 22 April 2017 after being struck by a truck while training near his home in Filottrano, in the Marche region of Italy. He was 37. The incident occurred the day after he took part in a professional race, and his passing prompted widespread tributes from fellow riders, teams and fans across the cycling community (circumstances of his death). His death highlighted ongoing concerns about rider safety on public roads and led to commemorations and calls for improved protections for cyclists.

Today Scarponi is remembered for his steady presence in stage racing, his tactical acumen in mountainous terrain, and the respect he earned from peers. Monuments, races and memorial rides in Italy and beyond have kept his memory alive within the sport.