An important bond, an encounter between two protagonists of great cycling, a friendship and mutual respect that transcend time and sporting memory. Franco Bitossi and Ivano Fanini, a historic connection and a special duo for Tuscan and national cycling.

As previously occurred during Franco Bitossi's 80th birthday, the two recently reunited at the Fanini - Amore e Vita Museum, directed by Stefano Bendinelli, to celebrate this sporting partnership.

Bitossi - one of the most successful Italian cyclists ever, with 171 professional victories between 1961 and 1978 - wanted to donate to the Fanini - Amore e Vita team patron some of the most significant jerseys from his extraordinary career, to be displayed in the prestigious museum collection.

Three-time Italian Champion, winner of two Tours of Lombardy and fully recognized among international cycling greats, Bitossi managed to win the public's heart not only through his triumphs but also through his humanity and the heart condition that, while challenging him, forged his character and legend. From that disorder came the nickname that made him immortal: "Crazy Heart".

An epithet that resonated with every success, whether in Giro d'Italia stages - like the famous Cuneo-Pinerolo - or the Tour of Switzerland, or in sprint finishes, where he knew how to seize the right moment for a decisive attack, even against champions like Eddy Merckx, Felice Gimondi, Gianni Motta, and Michele Dancelli. For Fanini, Bitossi represents an indelible memory, a continuous source of inspiration.

"Bitossi is one of the greatest Tuscan riders of all time" - Ivano Fanini recounts. "I had the opportunity to connect with Franco from my first steps in the cycling world, even though he had already stopped racing when I founded my professional teams. If I could have, I would have definitely wanted him in my team, just as I did with Giambattista Baronchelli, his teammate. In truth, Bitossi was my first idol. And I don't hide that the decision to found a professional team also came from the passion I felt for him and his achievements. Today he carries his 85 years exceptionally, with the energy and enthusiasm of a young boy. I would like to see how riders from the last forty years will be at his age."

Words full of respect and gratitude, to which Bitossi responds emotionally: "I have very beautiful memories of Fanini. Already on my 80th birthday, I came here and was celebrated in a way I never expected and I was truly happy. Even then, I brought some of my most cherished jerseys to add to the museum's collection. Today I've brought others, because there's no better place they could be."

The new donations include the points classification jersey from the 1968 Tour de France, the red jersey (later becoming "cyclamen") of the points classification from the 1969 Giro d'Italia, the overall winner's jersey from the 1970 Tour of Switzerland, and the winner's jersey from the 1967 Tirreno-Adriatico. Precious gifts that further enrich the historical memory of Italian cycling.

"We are proud to display Franco's jerseys in our museum" - declares Stefano Bendinelli. "It's a gesture that celebrates an authentic friendship between two cycling icons, linked by common values and deep mutual respect. The jerseys will be displayed with the utmost care, in a corner entirely dedicated to champion Bitossi, to best highlight his extraordinary career and human story."

Once again, Bitossi and Fanini find themselves united by an invisible thread made of passion, respect, and love for cycling. A story of friendship and sport that continues to move and inspire new generations.