15 March, 2024

Milan-Sanremo 1951: Louison Bobet and the Bottecchia Ursus jersey

Edited by Alessandro Vecchiato

An iconic De Marchi cycling jersey triumphs in the Italian Classic

There are days carved in the history of cycling, true milestones. One of these is represented by the 43rd edition of the Milan-Sanremo. The Milan-Sanremo is one of the most prestigious Monument Classics in cycling, renowned for its breathtaking route embracing the scenic beauty of Northwestern Italy. On March 19, 1951, a day of fog and cold unfolds: it’s not yet 7 in the morning, but there is already a large crowd in the streets of Piazza della Repubblica. It will be 282 kilometers of pure passion, for a race that would see some of the greatest cyclists in the world compete: prominent names include Hugo Koblet, Fiorenzo Magni, Gino Bartali, and Pierre Barbotin.

The decisive attack at Capo Berta and the victory at the Milan-Sanremo

Louison Bobet, the legendary French champion, decided to attack with compatriot Pierre Barbotin on Capo Berta, after closing in on the breakaway and leading the chase. From follower to protagonist: about fifteen kilometers from the finish, after 270 kilometers, he decided to unleash his strength for the final attack that proved decisive, before crossing the finish line victorious at 4:02 pm. At the time, Louison Bobet was part of the Bottecchia-Ursus team, supported by Emilio De Marchi with the spectacular cycling jersey that later became an icon, distinguished by its vibrant colors and which, for decades to come, would set the style in the world of cycling apparel.

The 1951 Bottecchia jersey: a Legend in the Golden Era Peloton

As the crowd gathered along the finish line in Sanremo, Louison Bobet emerged as the undisputed winner, celebrated with a hurricane of applause and carried triumphantly on the shoulders of his compatriots: Pierre Barbotin crossed the finish line a few seconds later, while Loretto Petrucci finished third, 5 minutes behind. To this day, the memory of that victory pays homage to cycling and a story of great courage. The heroic feat brought the Bottecchia Ursus cycling jersey to triumph, a symbol of glory and tradition in the cycling world.

A vintage cycling jersey paying tribute

French champion Louison Bobet embodies the spirit of cycling’s Golden Age, carrying on the tradition of courage, determination, and respect for road cycling. The vintage Bottecchia Ursus cycling jersey is available as a reproduction, an icon of style and tradition that continues to inspire cyclists worldwide, perfect for the cyclist looking to stand out at vintage bike gatherings or historical cycling reenactments. Vintage cycling apparel continues to captivate enthusiasts, bringing to light the style and elegance of past eras. The Bottecchia Ursus Jersey remains an icon of this timeless style, representing the perfect blend of tradition and innovation in the world of cycling apparel.

Source: STAMPA SERA, Edizione per la Milano Sanremo. Anno V, Numero 66

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