Gianni Mura, one of Italy's most highly regarded sports journalists, has died. He was 74.
La Repubblica, the national daily that Mura wrote for, said he died Saturday at a hospital in Senigallia after having a heart attack.
Mura was known for his colorful soccer and Tour de France coverage. Until only recently, he still worked on a typewriter.
Mura was considered the successor to Gianni Brera, who was widely considered the country's top sports writer when he died in 1992.
Mura also wrote a weekly restaurant review column in Repubblica's magazine, accompanied by wine reviews by his wife, Paola.
Mura previously worked for the Gazzetta dello Sport. He also wrote several books, including a mystery novel based on the Tour.
Mura is survived by his wife.
