Let's make this birthday one to remember.

55 years old (Born on January 13, 1970)

Happy Birthday to the legendary Marco Pantani, cycling's beloved "Il Pirata"! Your epic climbs in the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France still leave us breathless—though not as breathless as your rivals desperately chasing you up Alpe d'Huez. Who else could make a bandana look so intimidating?

Your unforgettable double victory in 1998, conquering both Giro and Tour, remains etched in cycling history. Today we celebrate your fearless spirit, unmatched climbing prowess, and iconic style. May your legacy continue inspiring cyclists everywhere to pedal harder uphill—and perhaps reconsider their hairstyle choices.

Buon compleanno, Marco! Keep climbing mountains wherever you are!