Pakistan, Oct. 3 -- Charles Coste, the world's oldest former Olympic champion and a celebrated French track cyclist, has passed away at the age of 101, France's sports minister Marina Ferrari confirmed on Sunday.

Coste, who won gold at the 1948 London Olympics, remained a beloved figure in French sports history and recently served as a torchbearer for the 2024 Paris Games. "It was with great sorrow that I learned of the death of Charles Coste, Olympic champion in London," Ferrari said, adding, "At 101 years old, he leaves a huge sporting heritage."

Born on February 8, 1924, Coste's early cycling career was interrupted by World War II, but he returned to the sport with remarkable determination. He went on to win the French national title...