Costante Girardengo, Italian cyclist and coach (b. 1893)

Costante Girardengo: The Unforgettable "Campionissimo" of Italian Cycling

Costante Girardengo, born on March 18, 1893, and passing on February 9, 1978, was an iconic Italian professional road bicycle racer whose name is synonymous with the golden age of cycling. Pronounced [koˈstante dʒirarˈdeŋɡo], this native of Novi Ligure in Piedmont is widely revered as one of the most exceptional riders in the annals of the sport, a true pioneer who captivated a nation and set new benchmarks for athletic achievement and popular acclaim.

The Birth of a Legend: Defining the "Campionissimo" Era

Girardengo holds the unique distinction of being the very first rider to be formally bestowed with the revered title of "Campionissimo" – Italian for "champion of champions" – by an adoring Italian media and its passionate fan base. This prestigious appellation, created specifically to encapsulate his unparalleled dominance and charisma, has since been reserved for only a select few legendary figures in Italian cycling history, such as Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali, underscoring Girardengo's foundational status. His career, spanning from 1912 to 1936, was a testament to enduring strength and skill, albeit significantly interrupted and potentially curtailed by the devastating impact of World War I, which regrettably robbed him of several prime years.

Unrivaled Popularity: More Than a Sporting Hero

The extent of Girardengo's fame in the 1920s transcended the sporting arena, reaching a level of national adoration that is almost unimaginable today. At the zenith of his career, his popularity was so profound that it was famously said he commanded more public affection than even Benito Mussolini, the then-dictator of Italy. A remarkable decree highlighted his immense standing: all express trains, typically only stopping for heads of state or other paramount national figures, were mandated to halt in his humble hometown of Novi Ligure. This extraordinary privilege not only underscored his unparalleled celebrity but also symbolized the deep cultural resonance cycling held in post-war Italy, offering a source of national pride and escapism.

A Palmarès of Dominance: Girardengo's Key Victories

Costante Girardengo's formidable career achievements paint a vivid picture of his versatility and sheer dominance across various types of races. His record includes:

His exceptional performance also saw him ranked as the world's number one rider in 1919, 1922, 1923, 1925, and 1926, cementing his status as a global leader in the sport despite primarily racing within Italy. This geographical focus was largely due to the customs of the era; international travel was significantly more arduous and less common for cyclists than it is today, leading many top riders to concentrate their efforts in their home nations.

"The Novi Runt": Character and Legacy

Despite his towering achievements, Girardengo was of relatively small stature, a physical characteristic that affectionately earned him the enduring nickname "The Novi Runt" – a nod to his hometown. This seemingly disadvantageous build did not deter him; instead, it perhaps fueled a tenacious riding style, allowing him to excel on various terrains. His legacy extends beyond his race wins; after retiring from active racing, Girardengo remained deeply embedded in the sport. He famously served as a mentor and manager for the legendary Fausto Coppi, one of his successors to the "Campionissimo" title, imparting invaluable wisdom and experience. Furthermore, he established a bicycle manufacturing company that bore his name, ensuring that the Girardengo brand continued to be associated with quality cycling equipment, reflecting his enduring influence on the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions about Costante Girardengo

Who was Costante Girardengo?
Costante Girardengo was a legendary Italian professional road bicycle racer, active from 1912 to 1936, widely considered one of the greatest cyclists in history and the first to be dubbed "Campionissimo."
What does "Campionissimo" mean, and why was Girardengo the first?
"Campionissimo" is an Italian term meaning "champion of champions." Girardengo was the first rider to be officially given this title by Italian media and fans due to his unprecedented dominance, numerous victories, and immense popularity during his era.
What were Costante Girardengo's most significant achievements?
His major wins include two Giro d'Italia titles (1919, 1923), an incredible six Milan–San Remo victories, three Giro di Lombardia wins, and an unparalleled nine Italian Road Race Championships.
How popular was Girardengo in Italy?
He was immensely popular, even said to be more popular than Benito Mussolini at the height of his fame in the 1920s. A testament to his status was the decree that express trains would stop in his hometown of Novi Ligure, an honor usually reserved for heads of state.
What was Costante Girardengo's nickname?
Due to his small stature, he was affectionately known as "The Novi Runt," a reference to his hometown, Novi Ligure.
Did World War I affect Girardengo's career?
Yes, World War I significantly interrupted his professional career, which lasted from 1912 to 1936, costing him several years of his prime racing ability.
What did Girardengo do after his racing career?
After retiring, Costante Girardengo remained involved in cycling, notably managing and mentoring Fausto Coppi. He also founded his own bicycle manufacturing company, "Girardengo," cementing his legacy in the sport and industry.