Some of the greatest champions in cycling have fitting nicknames for their epic achievements. There is always meaning behind these nicknames, and the Dutch website Wieler Revue listed some of these cyclists with their nicknames and their respective meanings.
Vincenzo Nibali – The Shark of Messina
The Italian, born in Messina on the Sicilian coast, has all three Grand Tours and two monuments to his name. Every time he attacked with his characteristic style: like a shark, Nibali quietly waited for his moment and then ruthlessly struck when the road was steepest. His exploits earned him the nickname “Il Squalo di Messina” (The Shark of Messina).
Mario Cipollini – Il Re Leone (The Lion King)
One of the greatest sprinters in the history of cycling owes his nickname to his charismatic appearance. The Italian is also called Cipo, Lindo Mario, and Super Mario.
Marco Pantani – Il Pirata (The Pirate)
Considered an Italian legend, his performances made him one of the most iconic figures in the history of cycling. His nickname “Il Pirata” derives from his distinctive style on the bike, with a bandana on his head and the use of earrings.
Paolo Savoldelli – Il Falco (The Falcon)
The two-time Giro winner could climb very rapidly, but he owes his nickname to his equally superior descending skills.
Fabian Cancellara – Spartacus
The Swiss could attack his opponents with so much force that he ended up receiving the name of the Roman gladiator Spartacus, with whom he also has physical similarities.
Alberto Contador – El Pistolero (The Gunslinger)
The 2-time Tour de France champion and 3-time Vuelta a España champion also received an interesting nickname. ‘El Pistolero’ refers to the completely unexpected attacks he would make. The Spaniard also used to repeat the gesture during his many victories.
Tony Martin – The Panzerwagen
Tony Martin was able to develop and maintain such formidable power on his time trial bike that he was nicknamed after the feared German military vehicle.
Laurent Fignon – Le Professeur
The legend of French cycling, Laurent Fignon, doesn’t owe his nickname to his impressive list of honors but to his distinctive appearance in the peloton. He always wore his characteristic glasses during races.