Charles Coste Dies at 101, Was World's Oldest Living Olympian

Former Olympic cyclist Charles Coste died last Thursday, according to the Associated Press. He had been the oldest living Olympian before his death at the age of 101.

"The president of the republic and his wife pay tribute to the memory of this champion who left his mark on the history of his sport and of the nation," the office for French president Emmanuel Macron said in a statement. "They extend their heartfelt condolences to his loved ones and to all cycling enthusiasts."

The office added that Coste was "until his final breath, the tireless messenger of a certain idea of sport."

Coste won gold for France at the 1948 Games in the team pursuit. He teamed with Pierre Adam, Serge Blusson and Fernand Decanali in the event, beating Italy by almost 39 seconds, still the greatest margin of victory in the event in Olympic history.

During the 2024 Games he served as one the Olympic Flame torchbearers, passing the torch to French gold-medal winners Teddy Riner and Marie-José Pérec, who lit the flame.

"That moment symbolized the passion and spirit of transmission that drove him," Riner said. "Charles Coste embodied dedication, respect, and love for sport in all its forms."

Coste went professional with the Peugeot team after his Olympic triumph, winning the 1949 Grand Prix des Nations. He also competed in two Tours de France and four Giros during his professional career.