Four time French national champion Jean Stablinski has passed away, having succumbed to a long-term illness. The 1962 world champion took his first French title in 1960, before returning to the podium's top step in '62, '63 and for the final time in '64. Stablinski, who took five stage victories during his 12 Tour de France appearances, was also the victor of the inaugural Amstel Gold Race.
Following his retirement from professional cycling, Stablinski went on to guide the careers of budding young riders - most notably Lucien Van Impe and Bernard Hinault. Stablinski was 75 years old.
