February 7, 2010 (Pistoia, Italy) – Italy’s national cycling coach, Franco Ballerini, died today following injuries sustained during a car rally reports Reuters. While Ballerini was at the helm as head coach, Italy’s Paolo Bettini picked up gold at the 2004 Athens Olympics. The Italian team also did well at the Road World Championships with wins in 2002, 2006, 2007, and 2008.

Before becoming Italy’s head coach Ballerini, 45, had a successful professional cycling career winning Paris-Roubaix twice (1995, 1998). Pedal joins the global cycling community in mourning his loss and sending condolences to Ballerini’s family and friends.

For Reuters article click here.
For more on Ballerini click here.