French Athlete, the Most Senior Medalist, to Showcase Skills at Paris 2024

The Enigmatic Tale of Charles Coste: France’s Oldest Living Olympic Medalist

Charles Coste stood atop the podium at the 1948 Summer Games in London, but the stirring notes of “La Marseillaise” never graced his ears. Despite this disarray, he will bask in a renewed moment of glory as he carries the Paris 2024 torch.

Turning 100 on Thursday, Coste clinched an Olympic gold in track cycling for team pursuit alongside Pierre Adam, Serge Blusson, and Fernand Decanali.

Beyond his enigmatic feat at the Olympics lies his triumph in the 1949 Grand Prix des Nations—a compelling time trial spanning 140 kilometers where he outpaced Italian great Fausto Coppi, renowned for conquering both Tour de France and Giro d’Italia.

Coste’s prized golden relic resides among others including a medal bestowed by then President Vincent Auriol within a room nestled inside his abode in Parisian outskirts.

Reflecting on past accolades, Coste confided to Reuters stating: “Receiving the medal from President Auriol was indeed prestigious; however, paramount remains my cherished Olympic medal.”

A Vintage Memory Amidst Modernity

Born in 1924—the last occasion when Paris hosted the Summer Olympics—Coste now navigates with assistance from a walker while preserving vivid recollections of yesteryears.

“The podium was modest. The medals were handed over discreetly back then,” shared Coste. “We were informed that ‘La Marseillaise’ couldn’t be played due to an absent disc. Regardless,the ultimate goal was securing our coveted gold.”

Intriguingly,Coste reminisced on childhood aspirations saying,”At age twelve,I dreamt of becoming either a general or an Olympic victor.I relished being hailed as one of those jubilant riders during that unforgettable moment.”