Charles Coste, Olympic champion of 1948 and Paris 2024 torchbearer, dies at 101
Charles Coste, Olympic track cycling champion at the 1948 London Games and torchbearer for the Paris 2024 Olympics, has died at the age of 101.
A remarkable journey
Born in Marseille, Coste rose to prominence as one of the great names in postwar cycling.
At the London Olympics, he won gold in the team pursuit, marking France’s triumphant return to the international sporting stage after World War II.
Throughout his career, he was known for his discipline and deep passion for the sport, values he continued to embody long after retiring from competition.
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A symbolic flame
Last summer, at 101, Charles Coste took part in the Paris 2024 Olympic torch relay.
The moment carried powerful symbolism, moving many sports enthusiasts and reminding them of the endurance of the Olympic spirit.
His participation was widely seen as a heartfelt tribute to a life devoted to cycling and to the ideals of the Games.
A lasting legacy
Numerous figures in sport expressed their sorrow and admiration. “Mes pensées vont à ses proches, à la communauté du cyclisme et à tous ceux qui voient dans son parcours un modèle de persévérance,” read an official tribute, “My thoughts are with his loved ones, the cycling community, and all who see in his journey a model of perseverance.”
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Charles Coste leaves behind a rare example of determination and commitment that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Sources: AFP, France Télévisions, Le Monde
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