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Charles Coste, 1948 Olympic Cycling Champion and Paris 2024 Torchbearer, Dies at 101

Public tributes emphasize his role bridging post‑war champions to Paris 2024.

Overview

  • He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday at age 101, recognized as the oldest living Olympic champion at the time of his passing.
  • He will be inhumed on Friday, November 7, at the Levallois-Perret cemetery, following his wish for discreet funeral arrangements.
  • Tony Estanguet and Teddy Riner praised his humility and lasting influence, with additional condolences from Sports Minister Marina Ferrari.
  • He received the Légion d'honneur in 2022 after advocacy by the Paris 2024 organizers, and he served as the penultimate torch relay bearer at the opening ceremony.
  • Beyond his 1948 team pursuit gold, he won the 1949 Grand Prix des Nations and raced two Tours de France and three Giros before retiring in 1959.