Charles Coste: A Century of Olympic Glory and an Eternal Legacy

The Olympic Movement bids farewell with deep sorrow and gratitude to Charles Coste, the French cycling legend and Olympic champion at London 1948, who passed away at the age of 101. With his departure, the world of sports says goodbye to the oldest living Olympic champion, a true symbol of dedication and passion.

During the Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, his image moved the world: from a wheelchair, he handed the Olympic flame to judoka Teddy Riner and sprinter Marie-José Pérec, in a deeply emotional gesture that symbolized the passing of the torch between generations.

“Winning Olympic gold is unforgettable—an immense joy. We were so happy, although the British forgot to play La Marseillaise for us,” Coste recalled in an interview with Olympics.com in 2024. “Personally, I always cared about my rivals and made lifelong friendships thanks to sport. I hope that will be the legacy I leave behind,” he added.

His triumph in the team pursuit at London 1948 marked a generation. Together with teammates Fernand Decanali, Pierre Adam, and Serge Blusson, he led France to the top of the podium.

Unforgettable

Kirsty Coventry, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), expressed her condolences upon hearing the news: “We must say goodbye to Charles Coste, Olympic cycling champion in London 1948 and penultimate torchbearer at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. At 101, he was the oldest living Olympic champion. The image of him handing over the Olympic flame to Teddy Riner and Marie-José Pérec under the Parisian rain during the Opening Ceremony of Paris 2024 touched hearts around the world. We will always remember him. Our thoughts are with his family in these difficult times.”

With his serene smile and lifelong love for sport, Charles Coste embodied the purest values of the Olympic Movement: excellence, friendship, and respect.

Today, Centro Caribe Sports joins the tribute and the sentiment of the entire Olympic family around the world in remembering Charles Coste. His legacy—like his Olympic flame—will remain forever lit in the history of sport.

Centro Caribe Sports Press – November 2025