Mario Cipollini, often abbreviated to "Cipo", is a retired Italian professional road cyclist most noted for his sprinting ability, the longevity of his dominance, and his colourful personality. His nicknames include Il Re Leone and Super Mario. He is regarded as having been the best sprinter of his generation.
Cipollini at the 1993 Tour de France
Cipollini (center) climbing during the 1991 Giro d'Italia
Cipollini at the 1997 Paris-Nice
Cipollini climbing during the 2004 Tour de Georgia
A sprinter is a road bicycle racer or track racer who can finish a race very explosively by accelerating quickly to a high speed, often using the slipstream of another cyclist or group of cyclists tactically to conserve energy.
A bunch sprint finish at the 2011 Tour de France, in which sprinter Mark Cavendish (in the green jersey) is being led out by the last of his team's sprint train, Mark Renshaw.