Molteni (cycling team)

Molteni was a professional cycling team that was active from 1958 to 1976. Founded in Belgium, it was known for its distinctive brown and orange jersey. While it had several iterations and smaller successes in its early years, Molteni achieved its greatest fame and recognition in the late 1960s and early 1970s, primarily due to its association with Eddy Merckx.

The team's success was largely attributed to Merckx, who rode for Molteni from 1971 until the team's disbandment in 1976. During this period, Merckx achieved numerous victories, including multiple wins in the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia, and Vuelta a España, as well as several Classics victories. Other notable riders who rode for Molteni included Joseph Bruyère, Frans Mintjens, and Hennie Kuiper.

Molteni was known for its strong team support and tactical prowess, often dominating races with Merckx leading the charge. The team's legacy is strongly tied to the era of Merckx's dominance and remains a significant part of cycling history. The team folded in 1976 after the Molteni salami company ended its sponsorship.