Two-time Olympic vice-champion and five-time world champion, famous French biathlete Emilien Jacquelin will wear the earring of legendary Italian cyclist Marco Pantani, who died in 2004 at the age of 34 in a hotel room from a cocaine overdose, at the 2026 Olympic Games, Reuters reports.
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As it turned out, Jacqueline is an avid cycling fan and was involved in the sport himself as a child. Moreover, the winner of the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France Pantani was his idol. The biathlete's ring was lent by the late cyclist's family after Jacqueline contacted his parents.
“Pantani is the one who made me want to do sports – to go to the mountains, ski or bike,” said Emilien Jacquelin . “His extravagance and charisma… That's what made me fall in love with him when I was young. I always wanted to be like him. That's why in Italy I want to honor the memory of Pantani, he is a true legend.”
I want to preserve his legacy even 22 years after his death. He was my idol and changed my view of sports forever.
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“I had the honor of keeping the flame of Pantani's memory alive for several races. I will be wearing Marco's earring at the Olympics. His family lent it to me so I could race here in Italy.”
The legendary Marco Pantani
We should add that this season, 30-year-old Emilien Jacquelin is in 8th place in the overall World Cup standings. At the last Olympic Games, the Frenchman won silver in the mixed and classic relays.
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Previously, “FACTS” reported that the vice-champion of the Olympic Games amputated his finger to participate in the Olympics in Paris.
Photos from social networks