The memory of Fabio does not fade thanks to those who love him and remember him.
On the evening of Wednesday, July 16, 2025, we celebrated a mass in suffrage of Fabio Casartelli at the Sanctuary of Madonna del Ghisallo, in the presence of his parents Rosa and Sergio. A tribute to the Olympic Champion, a remembrance of the person. These are the words of Don Giovanni Giovannoni, Rector of the Sanctuary, dedicated to Fabio during the suffrage Mass:
“I did not know Fabio in person, so I cannot say what was in his heart, what his tastes were, or all those things that one person can say about another when there is, or has been, a good acquaintance or even better, a friendship. This does not prevent me from speaking about him here today in the sanctuary where cyclists have a special place in Mary’s heart. In this sanctuary, cyclists are beloved children of the Madonna del Ghisallo. A memory of Fabio that is prayer, and a special prayer because it takes place during the Holy Mass of suffrage. The etymology of the word “suffrage” derives from the Latin “suffragium,” which in turn is composed of “sub” (under) and “fragor” (din, noise, cry). Therefore, a memory made only with the clamor, the strength of an intense, noisy, shouted prayer so that the Lord may hear it through the intercession of Mary. Fabio’s earthly life ended early, on July 18, 30 years ago, during an important race like the 1995 Tour de France. However, that was not the destination, but a stage of a dream that was coming true and of which he had already experienced firsthand, such as the gold medal at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. A dream that, to come true, Fabio certainly put all his effort into, supported by his passion. A dream that ended that day. His life, though brief, showed us how a true dream is not an illusion, but a true hope that moves existence towards the future, that gives strength to build one’s future. Was it worth it given the tragic interruption? Is it worth living life to the fullest, or is it worth living long? Is it worth savoring one’s days, or is it better to have many? It says in Psalm 90: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Where numbering means giving them weight, value. Every day of our life must be counted, that is, lived to the fullest. This is what Fabio did: he gave value to his days, he lived them to the fullest, he did not waste them. His life was a gift he received, his family, and we who remember him today. So, it was worth it. Fabio’s life is well represented by the image used in the responsorial psalm of this Mass: “He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season, and whose leaf does not wither”! Fabio drew from those streams of water that helped him realize his dream. He bore his fruits and is still bearing them •thanks to those who, like the organizers of the annual race dedicated to him, do not allow his leaves to wither.”
In July, two granfondo races are also dedicated to the champion from Albese Cassano: one in the Romagna region, which took place on Sunday, July 6 in Forlì (https://www.lacasartelli.it/), the other right in Albese con Cassano scheduled for Sunday, July 20 (https://www.fondazionecasartelli.it/).
In the Parish Church of Albese con Cassano, Fabio will be remembered with a suffrage mass on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of his passing. The mass will be held on Friday, July 18 at 8:00 PM.
