Mario Cipollini is currently in the hospital. The 58-year-old Italian is experiencing heart problems. This is not the first time: in 2019, the former top sprinter already underwent heart surgery.
The flamboyant Cipollini shared the news himself through his Instagram channel. The former rider posted several videos in recent days, showing that he is currently in the hospital with electrodes attached to his body. "I am having heart problems again. The doctors will see what they can do. They are currently evaluating whether it is necessary to implant a defibrillator," said the former world champion.
Previous surgery
Cipollini has been dealing with heart issues for some time. In 2019, the former top sprinter had to undergo surgery after suffering for a while from tachycardia, a condition where the heart beats at a resting rate of more than one hundred beats per minute. Cipollini’s heart problem became apparent at that time after he experienced discomfort while cycling.
The Italian was known in the 1990s and early 2000s as the best sprinter of his generation. 'Beautiful Mario' achieved over 160 victories in his career, including three stages in the Vuelta a España, twelve stages in the Tour de France, and no less than 42 stage wins in the Giro d'Italia. He also won Milan-San Remo in 2002 and sprinted to the world title that year. He is listed three times on the honors list of Gent-Wevelgem as well.
After his career, Cipollini also made headlines in a less favorable way. In 2022, Cipollini was sentenced to three years in prison for assaulting and threatening his ex-wife. He allegedly abused, threatened, and stalked her. For example, he pressed a gun to her forehead. Cipollini was also convicted of threatening his ex-wife’s new partner.
