Published: 26/12/2024 12:56
Cycling loses one of its best-known figures. Pascal Hervéformer French rider and pink jersey at the 1996 Giro d'Italia, has died at the age of 60. The news, which arrived on Christmas night, shocked the entire sporting world. Hervé was fighting stomach cancer, for which he underwent surgery last September.
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The career of Pascal Hervé
Pascal Hervé had found his moment of glory in 1996when he wore the pink jersey during the Giro d'Italia. He was known as a reliable wingman and as the faithful teammate of Richard Virenque, with whom he shared many successes.
His career, however, was not without ombre. In 1998 he was involved in the Festina scandal, which rocked the Tour de France and marked a dark era for cycling. In 2001, at the age of 37, his adventure on two wheels ended after testing positive for doping during the Giro d'Italia. Despite everything, Hervé remained in the hearts of fans and his colleagues for his passion and fighting spirit.
The memory of teammates
The news of his death triggered a wave of emotion and condolences, especially on social media. Laurent Brochardhis partner in the Festina and world champion in 1997, wrote on X: “Pascal, my friend, I will miss you. You were rock'n'roll until the end. I have many memories, many beautiful moments spent together.”
The National Union of Professional Cyclists (UNCP) defined Hervé as “one emblematic figure of cycling” and expressed closeness to his family.
A legacy made of lights and shadows
Pascal Hervé left his mark on acomplex era of cycling. Loved for his character and talent, but also marked by the scandals that hit the sport in the 90s. “You were always there, even in the most difficult moments,” recalled Brochard, underlining Hervé's human side. The world of cycling rallies around his family and loved ones, remembering an athlete who was able to face victories, defeats and adversities with the same indomitable spirit.
