Memorable Tour de France Moments: 1995...

Would that this one were different. The 1995 Tour de France will be remembered as much for what was lost, as for what was won. While descending the Col de Portet d'Aspet in the Pyrenees during the 15th stage, 1992 Olympic Gold Medalist, Fabio Casartelli crashed, striking his head against a block wall along the roadway. He died during the flight to hospital.

Casartelli Monument on the Colde Portet d'Aspet

Casartelli was racing with the Motorola team, which also included Lance Armstrong. The next day, stage 16, the peloton completed what was essentially a neutralized race, with the Motorola team crossing the finish line together a short distance ahead of the other teams in honor of their teammate. Armstrong then went on to win the 18th stage outright, crossing the line while pointing to the sky, and dedicating the win to Casartelli.

Three spectators have been killed during the Tour de France since that time, though Casartelli's death was the last rider tragedy during the race.


Favorite moment, no. Memorable moment, yes.