Euro Peloton - Pro Cycling News

End of Season Fun with Garmin's David Zabriskie at Paris-Tours

2008-10-15T13:07:00.002-07:00

Zabriskie in his skin suit at Paris-Tours

I'll admit that for me, David Zabriskie's style of humor sometimes misses its mark with me, but this post by Zabriskie's teammate Christian Meier about his exploits at the recent Paris-Tours is straight up hilarious! I wish I could have been there to see it on TV live as it was happening.

Rarely do cycling fans see examples of the lighter side of cycling. Riders are usually so wrapped up in trying to get results that they usually don't have the time to clown around. However, with his recent third consecutive win at the US Pro time trial championship, Zabriskie can relax a bit and go have some fun. That he did it the way he did at Paris-Tours makes it even more funny.

Who else but Zabriskie would have the guts to kit up in his skinsuit for a road stage? Further, who would have the stones to tweak his bike set up just to make his teammates laugh? Zabriskie can come off as quirky and downright strange, but this exploit should be celebrated as one of the funniest moves by a cyclist in recent history.

Another part about the post by Meier that should be remembered is the description of Zabriskie's style of attack. Meier writes, "How the DZ attack works is you have to ride 1-2 kph faster than the pack until you have gotten a small and what seems an unthreatening gap, then you hit the afterburners. 'They are like animals(the pack), any sort of violent movements and they go crazy', [Zabriskie said -ed.]referring to the most common form of attacked used by cyclists, the hard fast acceleration." Again, absolutely side splitting to learn that Zabriskie regularly uses such an attack.

One thing I will always say about David Zabriskie: he is his own man. He does what he wants to do and makes no apologies for his behavior or antics. While he can be frustrating to have to interview, these types of actions do nothing but make me laugh. The icing on the cake would have been if he had managed to win the race in his get up. Maybe next time!

Lance Armstrong to Race Giro to Win? If So, Bravo and Forza!!!

2008-10-14T12:21:00.001-07:00

Lance Armstrong has hinted to the press that he may contest the 2009 Giro to win, rather than to use the race only as preparation for the July Tour de France. The Italian grand tour will be running for the 100th time, giving Armstrong a chance to be the only man ever to win the centennial edition of two grand tours. Although Armstrong's claim that he may not ride in the Tour is probably an elaborate bluff, it is still encouraging to see the 7-time Tour champ consider a different race.

The biggest knock against Lance Armstrong over his career is that he disregarded all other races in favor of the Tour de France. While it is true that he won other races during his career, no one can argue with the fact that Armstrong was 100% for the Tour, and only entered races that would help him reach his goal of overall victory year over year.

Armstrong's sudden declaration that he would like to contend at the Giro presents several interesting scenarios. One of course is that the world would get to see Lance Armstrong compete to win a race other than the Tour. But there are several other subplots that could develop. Lance's main adversary over the last years of his carrer at the Tour, Ivan Basso, is also set to ride the Giro in 2009. The two are friendly, yet each is trying to forge a new path as they make a comeback to the sport they had previously dominated. What will the dynamic be between Armstrong and Basso when the Giro begins?

Also worth consideration is who would support Armstrong at the Giro. Contador will probably be in a training camp during that time, which leaves Levi Leipheimer and Andreas Kloden as Armstrong's main supporters. But Johan Bruyneel will have to be careful not to tire his gregarios out too much, and so the team that Armstrong has at his disposal could be on the weaker side. Add the possibility of Alexander Vinokourov returning, and you have the possibility of real chaos as the team searches for an identity.

Another problem could arise if Armstrong somehow manages to win the Giro in 2009. Bruyneel has gone on record as saying that Alberto Contador is the world's best stage racer, but would he maintain that stance if Lance won his first Giro and had a chance to do the Giro-Tour double for the first time since 1998, when a doped-to-the-gills Marco Pantani took top honors in both races? If Armstrong manages to win in Italy, surely he'll want a shot to contend in France, which could set Astana up for legitamate turmoil within the team.

Either way, I salute Armstrong for his willingness to contest the Giro. If he follows through on his word and races to win, I'll cheer him like I never have before. I have always believed that the other great champions (Anquetil, Merckx, Hinault, Indurain) had something Lance never did: variety. Each of the aformentioned five time Tour winners had at least one Giro win to their credit, in addition to a slew of other big time races. Armstrong will never have the complete palmares of the legends listed above, but a Giro title would go a long way in proving that the Texan belongs among the best in the history of the sport.

As the Giro is only seven months away, Lance will need to get cracking now if he is to be on top form come May. He'll have to come into the Tour of California on decent form, and will need to adjust his normal schedule to coincide with the beginning of the Giro. A perfectionist, expect Armstrong to use the Tour of California and Paris-Nice stage races as indicators of his form as he sets out to win his first, and probably only, maglia rosa.

Bernhard Kohl Positive for CERA, Second Gerolsteiner Rider Guilty of Doping

2008-10-13T11:54:00.000-07:00

Perhaps coming up under the wing of Jan Ullrich affected Kohl's decision making

Bernhard Kohl has been found positive for CERA at this past year's Tour de France, and is the second Gerolsteiner rider to be caught for cheating at the Tour. The KOM champion and 3rd overall, Kohl's positive proves once and for all that NO ONE is above suspicion. A young, talented, seemingly clean rider, Kohl is now cast into the same lot as Piepoli, Ricco and his teammate Stefan Schumacher.

Denis Menchov of team Rabobank will likely be elevated to third place overall in the Tour, but the change will be cold comfort for a rider who has been affected by dopers before. Menchov was elevated to overall champion of the 2005 Vuelta a Espana after Roberto Heras was found positive for EPO, but the Russian missed out on all of the celebration of winning in the moment. Now, it looks like history has repeated itself for the Russian, this time at the Tour de France.

For Hans Michael Holzer, director of the now defunct Gerolsteiner outfit, the German will surely be incredulous that yet another of his top riders has tested positive. In fact, Holzer too must be viewed with a bit of skepticism, as he should have been able to keep better track of his star riders. Either way though, it will be dependant on Kohl to take full responsibility for his actions, as he will face a two year ban from competition.

Lotto-Silence, the team of Cadel Evans, will be hardest hit by the news of Kohl's positive, as the powerful mountain climber was slated to join the team in 2009 as a support rider for Evans. With his recent positive, his contract will be null and void with Lotto, and the Belgian team willl have to scramble to find another rider to support Evans in the mountains. They have already signed Thomas Dekker, but they will need at least one more good climber on the team if they are to contend with Alberto Contador and Astana.

Moving forward, all cycling fans must be ready for anything in relation to positive dope tests. If Kohl was doping, then it is entirely possible that many other youngsters are also cheating. Unfortunately, the culture of doping has not been stamped out among today's top pros, young and old. And as long as a cyclist can make thousands of Euros for cheating, expect the same behavior to continue into 2009.

Philippe Gilbert Breaks Through at Paris-Tours: 26 Year Old Belgian On the Rise for 2009

2008-10-12T19:49:00.000-07:00

So it came to this for Philippe Gilbert: At 26 years old, the Belgian had been close in classics races before (3rd at Milan-San Remo), but he had never managed to break through. He was part of a dysfunctional Belgian team at the world championships in Varese, Italy, and due to negative polemics, found himself out of the running in the chase for the rainbow jersey. It was just as well.

Today, two weeks to the day later, Gilbert found himself taking the start at a classic that he had come close to winning before: Paris-Tours. Using his acute tactical sense, Gulbert was able to join a group of four, consisting of Sébastien Turgot, Nicolas Vogondy, Mickaël Delage (Gilbert's teammate) and Jan Kuyckx. Gilbert was able to win thanks to an excellent lead out from Delage. Having ridden for Francaise des Jeux the last five years, he'll will be happy with his win at Paris-Tours; it will be a farewell gift to his sponsor.

Gilbert will be on the start line at next week's Tour of Romandy, but don't expect the Belgian hard man to win again. He'll be up against some of the world's best climbers, and he'll find it hard to keep pace with such mountain goats when the road grows steep. Instead, expect Lombardy defending champion Damiano Cunego to be in contention again, especially whe taking into account that we'll be only three weeks from Cunego's masterstroke 2nd place in Varese at the world championship in support of his countryman, Alessandro Ballan. The staunch climber will be motivated to take the final classic of 2008 in style, as the defending champion.

For the next day or so though, Gilbert should bask in his own success. Taking a classics win at such a young age makes Gilbert a favorite for the future, a rider capable of great things. He has taken multiple semi-classics victories before, but now that he has won one of the "big ones," expect that Gilbert to entrench himself among the world's best one day riders starting in 2009. And as a matter of fact, Silence-Lotto is counting on it.

Upcoming: Paris-Tours, October 12, 2008

2008-10-11T17:43:00.000-07:00

Paris-Tours, known as the "Sprinter's Classic" due to its relatively flat parcours, brings the peloton back to big time racing, and closer to the final big race of the year, the Tour of Romandy. Past winners of Paris-Tours include Alessandro Petacchi, Erik Zabel, and Joop Zoetemelk. Over the years, escape artists have been able to take top honors as well. Some break away stylists who have won over the years include Jacky Durand, Jakob Piil, Andrea Tafi, and Rolf Sørensen.

The start list is an impressive one, and in addition to the favorites, several lower profile riders could impress in the French race. The favorites consist of Daniele Bennati, Tom Boonen, Oscar Freire, Robbie McEwen, Gerald Ciolek, Matti Breschel, Tyler Farrar, and Erik Zabel. These top sprinters will have full support from their respective teams as they try to take the prestigious win. Among the favorites, Boonen, Farrar, and Breschel are on the best form.

For darkhorses, Mark Renshaw, Heinrich Haussler, newly crowned world champion Alessandro Ballan, JJ Haedo, and Bernhard Eisel could surprise the field. Renshaw has a fast finish and will be motivated to help sponsor Credit Agricole go out on top, while Haussler will hope to rediscover the form he had earlier in the season at the Tour of California. JJ Haedo is always dangerous in a sprint, and the Argentinian won't be watched as closely as teammate Breschel, and Bernhard Eisel is on great form, as evidenced by his recent win at Paris-Bourges earlier this week.

Ballan, though very well known, is still an underdog in the race as he is not known as a sprinter. However, if the lanky Italian has any of his world championship form remaining, he could jump away from the field and time trial home for the win. Other possible threats include Nick Nuyens, Sammy Sanchez, Filippo Pozzato, Allan Davis, and Nicolas Vogondy. Each of the above riders have the ability to attack the field with force, and they all have the power to keep away from the field if they can get a small gap.

Paris-Tours will give the sprinters a chance at victory ahead of next weekend's prestigious Tour of Romandy. A much hiller course awaits the field in Romandy, so the sprinters will be highly motivated to take one more win before the close of the season.

Ivan Basso Set to Return to Cycling at the Japan Cup, October 26

2008-10-10T15:28:00.000-07:00

Ivan Basso will return from his two year suspension for "attempted" blood doping next weekend at the Japan Cup. He'll do so in the acid green and blue kit of Liquigas. Basso will be looking to gain valuable racing kilometers as soon as possible, as he plans on targeting next year's Giro d'Italia overall classification.

Rumors out of Italy say that the Italian has ridden thousands of kilometers even during his suspension, and has gone as far as to try to simulate stage races by riding similar routes to those used in the Giro. He has even added time trials into his simulated grand tour regimen. At 30 years old (he'll be 31 in November), Basso seems ready to enter the prime of his career with a good chance to pick up where he left off before his suspension, as that of one of the world's most dominant stage racers.

The Liquigas team is a strong one, more than able to support a grand tour contender, and Basso will count on staunch support from Franco Pelizotti, as well as youngsters Roman Kreuzinger and Vincenzo Nibali in the 2009 Giro. But before he can be considered a contender for 2009's first grand tour, Basso will have to prove himself worthy at early season stage races like the Tour of California, Tirreno-Adriatico, and in the hilly Wallonian classics: the Amstel Gold, Fleche Wallone and Liege-Bastogne-Liege races.

When Basso takes to the start line on the 26th, he'll be looking to join an elite list of riders who have won the japan Cup. Some recent winners include Damiano Cunego, Riccardo Ricco, and Gilberto Simoni. Good climbers are able to take the win at the Japan Cup, and if on form, Basso will be in with a chance for victory in his first race back. Not likely of course, but still possible for the man once known as "il terrible."

Giro Won't Re-Test Samples for CERA, New Form of EPO . . . But Why?

2008-10-09T12:51:00.000-07:00

This is not good.What possible reason could Giro race director Angelo Zomegnan have for not agreeing to re-test Giro samples for CERA? Asked that very questoin, the best he could come up with was, "The Giro d'Italia has already made the necessary checks. The labs and the UCI have told us these tests were done and nothing was found that could be taken as suspect. It's useless to ask for more." Wow.

This is bad for cycling on several fronts. First, it significantly calls into question the ethics of the Giro d'Italia, the most beautiful of the three grand tours. If Zomegnan refuses to re-test the samples for CERA with the latest protocol, he is without a doubt doing a huge disservice to his race. Hopefully he'll change his mind.

Riccardo Ricco, the second placed overall finisher at the Giro, displayed the same explosive climbing talent in Italy that he did a month later in France. He was positive for CERA at the Tour, what is to say he wasn't doped at the Giro? Already under suspicion, Ricco is viewed by many as a cheat, and guilty by default of doping at the Giro.

Although it is painful, it is absolutely necessary to test pro cyclists to the fullest extent, especially in the prestigious grand tours. The Giro will be known now as a race that is leniant against doping. Zomegnan will be viewed as more concerned with making sure the top Italians succeed and ride in his race than whether they are doing so safely. Lance Armstrong has hinted that he would like to use the Giro as preparation for the Tour next year. With this recent news, the Texan would be well advised to stay far away.

The same goes for Ivan Basso, the UCI's ne "Anti-Doping Ambassador." Basso should take a firm stand against Zomegnan and state that he won't ride at a race that isn't doing everything it can to hold dopers accountable. More and more, Zomegnan is appearing to belong amongst the old school villians like Checcini, Fuentes, and Saiz. But it's not too late. Re-test the samples, hold all cheaters accountable, and retain the good reputation of your race Angelo. Or suffer the wrath of a weary and fed up fan base worldwide.

Alessandro Ballan New World Champ: Will He Go Worldwide?

2008-10-08T12:35:00.000-07:00

Alessandro Ballan took top honors in Varese two weeks ago, earning himself the moniker world champion. He is a worthy champion, one who is, as Damiano Cungeo asserted, "active from March through October." A multi-faceted stylist, Ballan has taken wins in hard men's classics (Flanders, De Panne), mountainous stage races (Vuelta 2008, 7th stage), and now, one day championships.

One thing Ballan hasn't done a lot of as a pro is travel. He has remained relatively Euro-centric over his career, as his Lampre team does not have a big enough budget to field competitive teams all over the world. but now that Ballan is the new world champ, should that change?

Paolo Bettini, as two time world champion, made sure to visit America and other countries during his reign. The thrill of seeing a current world champion was not lost on the American fan base, as Bettini was hounded for autographs and pictures throughout his two Tours of California. Ballan, while on a smaller team than Bettini, would do well to lobby for appearances out of Europe.

Whether Lampre's management will accommodate a more diverse schedule for Ballan is in doubt. As a smaller Italian team, Lampre is more concerned with the Giro and other Italian races. Ballan has never raced his home tour before, and will likely toe the line for the first time in this year's upcoming Giro. After that, he'll probably take a much needed rest and skip the Tour de France.

Hopefully Ballan will consider attending the Tour of California this year. It would offer him ideal preparation for the early spring classics, and would give him the opportunity to show off his new kit to non-European fans. Plus, he would delight the American crowd in California, who have grown used to seeing the world champion at the early season stage race.

Alcala Crashes Out of Vuelta a Chihuahua, Comeback Bid Falters

2008-10-07T18:11:00.000-07:00

When the news broke earlier this week regarding Raul Alcala's attempted comeback to the world of pro cycling, it seemed almost unbellievable. This was a man 14 years removed from the highest levels of the sport. Sure, he was once one of the best riders in the world, but did Alcala really believe, in his heart of hearts, that he could come back and compete with riders twenty years younger than he?

Apparently, that's exactly what he thought. Alcala was able to get through the first stage of Chihuahua, a pancake flat, arrow straight route, but Wednesday's second stage was an entirely different task. Featuring five catagorized climbs, stage two promised to expose Alcala as legit or lame. As it turned out, he looked more lame. Alcala crashed out on the stage, after failing to corner on a descent. He was limping and had abrasions to his body and face. As quickly as his comeback bid began, seemingly it ended on the roads of Mexico.

Presumably, Alcala' injuries aren't too serious, and perhaps he'll continue the charade of a come back. But the truth is the truth. A 44 year old man 14 years removed from competition has little chance of succeeding in a comeback bid. Although amirable, Alcala must have known himself that he had little chance of riding the 2009 Tour. Hopefully, he'll hang up his cleats for good, so he isn;t injured worse at a different race.

So who could be next to try their hand at a comeback? If Alcala is audacious enough to try, who says others won't follow suit. Maybe Alex Zulle or Peter Van Petegem will have another go at the pros. Or how about Tony Rominger or Richard Verenque? Why not Roberto Gaggioli or Harm Jansen? Even Ivan Gotti, Ande Tchmil and Jacky Durand should be considered possible comebackers. And there is one other who could probably suit up again and finish the Vuelta a Chihuahua: The Great Eddy Merckx. Just a thought.

Stephan Schumacher Positive for CERA at Tour de France, Another Black Mark for Cycling

2008-10-06T12:08:00.000-07:00

It looks like it really was too good to be true for Stefan Schumacher at this past year's Tour de France, as the double time trial winner has tested positive for the new form of EPO, called CERA. In what is another black mark against cycling, Schumacher's positive proves that doping is still going on in cycling, even at the highest and most policed levels.

Fabian Cancellara was second in the first TT and Kim Kirchin for the second, so presumably the victories will be awarded to the big Saxo Bank time trial ace and the Columbia classics specialist. Now more than ever, teams must find the budget to finance internal testing systems for their riders. Teams like Saxo, Garmin, and Astana can feel safe that their riders (even Schleck!) are performing clean, but for the other teams, the picture is much more cloudy.

Without these rigourous testing procedures in place, performances of riders could, and should be called into question. As unfortunate as it is, a comprehensive internal anti-doping program is as important as team equipment these days. Without it, a team will constantly be looked at with suspicion.

Next for Schumacher will undoubtedly be a two year suspension, and a firing from his new team Quick Step. Quick Step boss Patrick Lefevre is now without a hilly classics contender, with the recent retirement of Paolo Bettini. Perhpaps Lefevre will rethink his plan and offer "il grillo" the money that the Italian was originally not granted. Hopefully there won't be additional positives in the coming days, but for some reason it seems like there will be.

Frank Schleck, Doping and Puerto: Did He or Didn't He?

2008-10-05T14:53:00.000-07:00

Feelings in the cycling community are strong regarding Frank Schleck's 7000 Euro payment to Eufamio Fuentes, the doctor at the center of the Operacion Puerto affair. Schleck allows that he made the payment back in 2006, but says it was not in relation to doping. With no official evidence to bring against Schleck, it looks as though the Luxembourger will escape without sanction unless the dossiers from Puerto are released to each national federation.

Before we condemn Schleck though, should we not also admit that the elder of the two Schleck's has raced clean throughout 2007 and 2008? After all, he is part of CSC's comprehensive anti-doping regimen run by Damsgard. If any of his values were abnormal over the past few years, surely he would have been caught. Yes, he probably was seeking assistance from Fuentes to dope back in 2006, but who wasn't? 2006 was the year that saw Basso, Ullrich, Mancebo and a host of others booted from the Tour, signalling the rampant use of drugs in the sport.

Frank Schleck clearly was seeking to break the rules by seeking services from Fuentes, but at what point will bygones be bygones? Since 2007, Schleck has enjoyed many successes at the top level of his sport, and he has the hard data to prove that he did so while riding clean. Like many of the riders who have escaped justice's rule from the Puerto fiasco, Schleck should be able to ply his trade under the same rules as everyone else. In 2006, the atmosphere in cycling was drastically different than today. Schleck is doing all he can to prove he is riding clean, he deserves the benifit of the doubt.

Of course fans and pundits will continue to call for Schleck's head, claiming that he should be held responsibile for his actions. Although I won't do the same, I too would like to see the truth come out. Why not give all riders amnesty from 2006 back, in hopes of encourouging riders to share the happenings of Puerto without fear of retribution. Once and for all, we would then be able to move beyond Operacion Puerto, and into a new future of professional cycling, one of transparency and honesty.

Like a Fine Wine: On the Heels of Lance Armstrong Comeback, Alexander Vinokourov Plans Return, Seeks Redemption

2008-10-04T19:22:00.000-07:00

If it's good enough for Lance (and Basso, and Petacchi, and Sevilla, and Valverde, and Mancebo, and Botero), it's good enough for Alexander Vinokourov! The Kazakh cycling legend has announced his intention to return to pro riding (despite being dogged by doping accusations) at the 2009 Giro, and with none other than the Astana Cycling Team of Lance Armstrong.

I know what you're thinking: no way will Lance allow Vino to sign with Astana. Not so fast. Vinokourov launched Astana with the backing of all the current Astana decision makers. He is a national hero and the reason that the Kazakh government has backed the Astana venture. If Vino asserts his force, which he most certainly will, won't Astana accept him back into the fold? Probably. Plus, he's be a great lieutenant for Armstrong at the Tour.

But there is one final obstacle standing in Vino's way on the comeback trail: the UCI. Pat McQaid has long contended that the punishment handed down (1 year) by the Kazakh cycling federation for Vino's homologous blood doping was not sufficient. If Vino applies officially for a racing license, he'll have to contend with the fact that under UCI regulations he is not eligible to return to pro cycling until July of 2009. Quite a quandary for the aging 36 year old battle axe.

As seems to be the trend recently, the Astana team continues to be front and center in the press, despite the fact that we are heading into the off season. At this point, Astana has enough subplots going on to be considered a legitimate circus. The media will no doubt swarm over the next few weeks, as Johan Bruyneel and his turquoise army play out the triple drama: the Vino comeback, the Armstrong comeback, and escape of Alberto Contodor. As a cycling fan, what more could you ask for the upcoming holiday season?!!?!?!!?? Ho! Ho!! Ho!!!

Last Stand for Chris Horner: Astana Pro Hopes for One More Tour de France Ride

2008-10-03T15:00:00.000-07:00

At 36 years old, like it or not, Chris Horner's days as a top-flight Euro pro are numbered. He's coming into the second year of a two year contract, and his final chance to ride the Tour de France may well be approaching for the 2009 season. He is on a stacked Astana team, and finding a spot on a Tour team with the likes of Levi Leipheimer, Haimer Zubeldia, Andreas Kloden, and Lance Armstrong (Contador will be gone) may prove difficult.

Compounding the problem is the fact that Horner has a frosty relationship with Armstrong. The two were never teammates as pros, and Horner was often outspoken against Armstrong's perceived dominance of the peloton. Now, as a teammate to Big Tex, horner will have to foster a positive relationship with the seven time Tour champ if he is to earn a spot on Astana's roster for the 2009 Tour.

Whether Horner can be an asset in the Tour is not in question. The question is whether he'll be able to set himself apart from other talented Astana riders (Benji Noval, Janez Brajkovich, Jesús Hernández, José Luis Rubiera) in the early season. In fact, Horner's most important race of 2009 may end up being the Tour of California, where he'll first have a chance to ride with Armstrong. Assuming that he performs well as a support rider there, perhaps he'll be able to count Armstrong as an ally when the Tour selection process begins.

The future beyond 2009 is cloudy for Horner. There is little doubt as to whether he can still ride competitively. the real question may be for who? Astana probably won't renew his contract for 2010, and there are few other top level European teams that would be willing to throw big money at an aging American rider. Horner may find himself having to come back to the American domestic peloton if he is to continue to earn team leader money.

Five years ago, coming back to the US to race would be considered a step down to many riders. But today, things are different. The tours of California, Georgia, Missouri, and Utah are all difficult and competitive, and the Triple Crown of Cycling event in the Philadelphia region in June features the best riders in the world as well. More and more, America is becoming a place filled with the best riders from Europe and the world. And if Horner is willing, he could own the domestice circuit over the coming years as the leader of a top domestic team.

Contador vs. Armstrong & Bruyneel: How Long Until The Spaniard Defects?

2008-10-02T12:22:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy www.albumciclismo.it

Johan Bruyneel went on record today with the world press saying that there will be no problems with having both Alberto Contador and Lance Armstrong on the same team for the upcoming year. This comment comes on the heels of Contador saying that he would be unwilling to take a back seat to the Texan in this year's Tour de France. All of this is setting things up for a nice little controversy leading into the 2009 season.

Anyone, including Bruyneel, who thinks that Armstrong would willingly become a gregario for Contador and Astana are fooling themselves. Armstrong rides his bike to win, simple as that, and he is not making a comeback to the sport to ride tempo for another rider. Contador, like any rational thinking human, realizes this fact, and is beginning to explore his options for leaving Astana.

Bruyneel, ever greedy and power hungry, has somehow convinced himself that he will be able to retain both Contador and Armstrong for 2009. Nothing could be further from the truth. And Armstrong for his part is also trying to convince Contador to stay, realizing that if he had to race against the Spaniard he would probably not fare all that well.

As usual, Lance Armstrong has managedto undermine a talented rider with his own ambitions of greatness (Landis, Heras, Hamilton, Leipheimer). Contador has won all three grand tours and he is only 25 years old. His future as a bike rider is starburst bright, and he'll be damned if his Tour de France dreams are derailed for a second straight year. The saddest part about the entire situation is that Contador shouldn't even be in the position he is in. If Bruyneel had even a shred of class or loyalty, he would either release Contador or rebuke Armstrong's return to Astana. Instead, he blindly hopes to hoodwink Contador into staying with the Astana squad.

Contador is, without a doubt, the best stage race rider in the world right now. No one has been able to match him in a grand tour, regardless of whether he is on form (Vuelta 2008) or not (Giro 2008). He has proven himself almost unbeatable in a three week race, and he deserves the full and unswerving support of Johan Bruyneel and team Astana. Instead, Bruyneel tells the press that Alberto is under contract and can't leave the team.

However, who is to say that a rival team won't buy out Contador's contract and steal him away? For instance, wouldn't Bjarne Riis do whatever it took to secure the Spaniard for his Saxo bank outfit? If it meant fronting a few million euros to make it happen, Riis would not hesitate. And as for Contador, moving over to a team like Saxo would be easy. Like Astana, they have an internal anti-doping program, an immensely talented supporting cast, and top flight coaching. Bruyneel had no qualms about signing former Riis protege Basso at Discovery, assume Riis will feel the same way about pursuing Contador for Saxo.

The next few months promise to be charged with anxiety and suspense for Bruyneel and Astana, as Contador mulls his options. And despite the fact that he is under contract, Contador still must do all he can to sign with another team for 2009. His star is bright, but Armstrong's is brighter, and the Texan will be able to pull rank on Contador for as long as they are teammates, regardless of what Armstrong or Bruyneel say publicly. The time has come for Contador to leave Astana, and make them sorry for not treating him like the champion he is.

Ciao Cozza! 23 Year Old Garmin Pro Makes Good in Varese with a Top 25 Placing

2008-10-01T15:08:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of www.albumciclismo.blogspot.com

Steven Cozza showed his ability as a top rider for the future after finishing an amazing 23rd in the world championship road race in Varese last Sunday. Cozza was the only American able to stay with the final group, and held on right until the end, eventually conceding only a minute and forty seconds to eventual winner Alessandro Ballan.

Speaking of Ballan, Cozza is built in the same mold as the Italian superstar, and the Petaluma resident may one day find himself at the front of the field taking the rainbow stripes for his country. An excellent time trialiast and all-around tough guy, Cozza has all of the characteristics necessary to win the same way Ballan did on Sunday.

To American cycling fans in the know, Cozza's performance is no surprise. The 23 year old has steadily improved during his short career, and more great things are surely on the way. After a few more races the off season will be in full swing, and we'll next see Cozza at the Tour of California in February. If the past is any indicator, he'll be fired up to animate each stage just like he was last year. Bravo Steve, America salutes you!!!

Azzura Assault: Italian Squadra Shows the World How to Race for Gold in Varese

2008-09-30T12:32:00.001-07:00

photo courtesy of www.albumciclismo.blogspot.com

The simplest word to explain the world championship in Varese this past Sunday was clinic. In an impressive display of power and tactical prowess, the Italian team placed three riders in the top five and dismantled the powerful Belgian and Spanish teams en route to taking the third rainbow jersey for Italy in as many years. Once an for all Italy proved that they are the premiere nation for competitive cycling, as they dominated a quality field on home soil.

The winner of Sunday's race, Alessandro Ballan, was able to escape from a select group thanks to perfect tactical riding from the entire team, including Davide Rebellin and Damiano Cunego. As the final lap was raced, all three of the Italians took turns attacking the field, and Ballan's final surge with only three kilometers remaining was too much for the remaining riders to answer. Denmark's Matti Breschel was the strongest of the non Italians, but was unable to match a solid Cunego in the finishing sprint.

Cunego showed just how good a one day rider he is on Sunday, and proved his worth as a quality team member of the Squadra Azzura. In the post race press conference, Cunego answered questions about his future as a grand tour contender. "Yes I had an off year in the grand tours, but I still think I can contend in three week events. I have always been a good one day rider, but it is also true that I have the talent to contend in the grand tours. My plan will not change. I will continue to target select one day monuments, but will also continue to try to win three week tours." With his second place in Varese though, talk of Cunego as strictly a one day threat will only increase.

Ballan meanwhile is a more than worthy champion to wear the rainbow jersey. He is a rare rider in that he is, as Cunego himself said, "present from January through October. He is a selfless rider who is always willing to work for his team, and he deserves this win." Cunego's statement is a sage one. Ballan has characteristics that few other riders do. He is capable of winning all types of races throughout the year, and he has earned the right to wear the rainbow jersey for the next season.

For defending champion Paolo Bettini, retirement seems to be the path he has chosen. Ballan described that hearing of Bettini's retirement the night before the road race was "like a cold shower, a real shock." Still, Bettini was gracious enough to allow the rest of his team to try for the win after he realized that he was being controlled by the Spanish and Belgian teams. In a show of sportsmanship, Bettini could be seen celebrating Ballan's win as he rode into the stadium. "Il Grillo" is gone for now, but surely the lure of competition will bring him back to competitive cycling in the near future. For now though, the spotlight belongs to Ballan, the new champion of the world, and king of Italy.

World Road Race Championship 2008: Course Preview with Lucas Euser

2008-09-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

Lucas Euser, budding climber of the Garmin Chipotle team, was nice enough to allow EuroPeloton to ride along with him on the road course in Varese on Thursday. At only 25 years old, Euser is a bright young talent on the American cycling scene, and he'll use the road race on Sunday to gain some valuable experience racing against the best in the world. With Levi Leipheimer's departure on Friday for America, the US team will be riding without a de facto leader, allowing Euser to look for his opportunity on Sunday.

As we ascended the first climb on the road course, Euser explained that the downhill portions would be just as important as the uphill sections on the course. "The descent off this first climb, at eight kilometers, is twisting and technical. There will be many opportunities to create a gap on the downhill, so if you're not in the first 25 riders, you could miss a decisive move." As we flew down the descent, I saw what he meant. The road is rarely straight on this section, and seems to widen and narrow every few meters. Add a tough round about to the mix and you have a descent made for escape artists.

As we transitioned onto the ronchi (pronounced ron-key, climb in Italian) Euser showed me how an attack could be made. He flew away from me with relative ease, and looked back saying, "You see that this climb isn't overly steep, so you can really punch it to put a rider into difficulty." I wheezed "yeah" as I desperately tried not to look spent as I pursued him. At four kilometers, the climb may not be long enough to unhitch the field right away, but the riders will tackle the climb 15 times. By the 13th or 14th time up, expect some of the less climbing oriented riders to fade away, leaving only the true hilly classic contenders like Valverde and Bettini to battle for the rainbow jersey.

After summiting the climb, there are still four kilometers until the finish line. If a rider with good time trialing skills can escape on the climb, perhaps he'll be able to hold the lead all the way to the finish in Mapei stadium. Adding to the trouble however is that there is a short incline leading into the stadium at the 400 meters to go mark. Both the U-23 and women's race were affected by this slight rise in the road, and the gradual pitch will likely play into the finish of the men's race as well. Top sprinters like Tom Boonen, Oscar Freire and Robbie McEwen will have to hope to survive the final incline if they are to win. It won't be easy though. Punchy climbers like Bettini, Valverde, Schumacher, and Breschel will do all they can to unhitch the fast men on the run in to the finish.

So who does Euser think is the top favorite for the race? A less obvious choice, Davide Rebellin. "Rebellin is better than any other rider I know at conserving his energy. He's always in the right place, always underrated, and he rides with those factors in mind. Plus, he can descend better than most. Just look what he did to Gesink in this past year's Paris Nice race. He showed us all how it's done!" Euser's pick is a good one, especially considering that his teammate Bettini will be watched much closer by the rest of the field. A big thank you to Lucas for his candid perspectives for this article, and best of luck in the future!

World Time Trial Championship: Bert Grabsch Surprises Favorites, Takes Gold for Germany and Team Columbia

2008-09-25T07:29:00.001-07:00

As promised, your full race report.

The world time trial championship was predicted to be one fought out between American star Levi Leipheimer, and Columbia's stable of time trialing talent. Tony Martin, Adam Hansen, Mick Rogers, Bert Grabsch, and Edvald Boassen Hagen all figured to be right in the mix in the hunt for the chrono championship. For Italy, all eyes were fixed on Marco Pinotti, the veteran star also riding for Bob Stapleton's team Columbia. Briton was counting on the redeemed David Millar, while Slovenia's Janez Brajkovic, France's Sylvain Chavanel and Belgium's Stijn Devolder all hoped to play spoilers against the Columbia juggernaut.

But it was not to be. Grabsch blistered the 47 kilometer course, emphatically stamping his authority on the race, and claiming his first world time trial title. Canada's Svein Tuft rode a sublime race, and claimed second place and the silver medal. Although he is currently without a team for 2009, the offers should start pouring in for Tuft after his amazing time trial performance. Third place and the bronze medal was taken by David Zabriskie, who battled through lingering back problems to make the podium.

The biggest disappointments on the day were Mick Rogers, who fell to 12th place at 1:33 back, Boassen Hagen in 21st at 2:28, and Adam Hansen in 34th at 3:49. Levi Leipheimer finished out of the medals in fourth, a scant 13 seconds behind fellow countryman Zabriskie. Perhaps the pressure of being the favorite took it's toll on Leipheimer, who just last week won the final time trial of the Vuelta a Espana over a quality field.

Tomorrow's action features the best riders in the world in the under 23 years old catagory. With the time trial events completed, we embark on the second half of world championship weekend, and all the excitement that comes with it. Full road course preview tomorrow, as I ride the course with friends and family in the morning. Ciao!

Grabsch won gold for Germany and his team, Columbia

Chavanel had a decent ide, but couldn't make the podium for France

Despite persistant back problems, Zabriskie managed third place

David Millar looked good early, but faded late

Leipheimer couldn't live up to his favorite status

This is . . . . The World Cycling Championships 2008, Varese

2008-09-24T05:33:00.001-07:00

A picture says a thousand words. So without further ado, first impressions from Varese at the women's individual time trial and Mapei Cycling Stadium . . .

The Italian police force will support every race throughout the week

The main grandstand area, including the press section on the right

Bicycle art is everywhere

The start/finish line for the road races

The official world championship logo

Much more later, stay tuned . . . .

Dinner with the UCI: Officials in Varese Provide their Favorites for World Road Cycling Championship

2008-09-23T23:15:00.001-07:00

I was lucky enough to dine last night with family and friends at the same restaurant as eleven officials from the UCI at the beautiful Albergo Valganna hotel in Varese. We ate at the delicious Ristorante 3Risotti, featuring rich dishes of meat and pasta. Their specialty is risotto, and the chef on site makes his own cheese---delicious!

I think the group of UCI officials chatted excitidely throughout the evening about the parcours and what remained to do. They spoke mostly in French, so much of what they said was alien to me. However, when the topic changed to the road race on Sunday, each communicated their road race favorite to me in English.

While many of the choices were typical, there were a few suprises. Four of them chose Paolo Bettini, four went with Alejandro Valverde, and two chose Oscar Freire. None of these choices surprised me. However, two of them made less traditional choices.

One of the tallest members of the group, friendly and soft spoken, chose his countryman Nicolas Vogondy as the victor. Vogondy, at age 31, is in the prime of his career and is the current French national champion. He possesses the qualities necessary to win, including good climbing skills and great endurance. Unfortunately, his sprint is not excellent, so he would need to arrive at the line solo to claim the win. Still, it was an interesting and intriguing pick.

The other surprise came from a man wearing a blue UCI sweater in the group, who felt that Greg Van Avermaet would take gold for his Belgian team. Van Avermaet is coming off a successful Vuelta a Espana, and is a young arriving star for Belgium. He was mentioned here as a possible darkhorse candidate for victory, and his talent should not be discounted. What better way for the youngster to mark himself as a future star than to take the rainbow jersey against some of the best riders in the world?

Because I didn't hear some other favorites mentioned, I asked the group what they thought of several other riders. They nodded their heads and agreed that Philippe Gilbert, Davide Rebellin and Matti Breschel all had a chance, and also agreed that if Bettini is to win, everything will need to come together just right.

I would like to thank each member of the group that I was able to speak with regarding the racing, and I wish each one luck in assisting to make this world championships better than any other. Although sometimes the UCI is looked upon negatively, we should never forget how difficult it is to put on a bike race, let alone a world championship. Cheers to the UCI for their efforts in each and every race!

NOTE: USING DIAL UP AGAIN, PICTURES WILL BE DICEY UNTIL I CAN FIND A BETTER SPOT TO POST FROM. WILL BE IN THE MEDIA CENTER TODAY, SO PICS COMING SOON.

No World's for Cancellara, Time Trial Rainbow for Levi?

2008-09-23T00:59:00.000-07:00

Fabian Cancellara, citing mental fatigue, has decided not to defend his world time trial title this year in Varese. The big Swiss engine also has chosen not to ride in the road race. The absence of the world's premiere time trialist in the opens the door for other candidates for victory, and American Levi Leipheimer heads the list of favorites for the race of truth.

Leipheimer blistered the final time trial at the Vuelta a Espana, besting his fellow teammate Alberto Contador and Spaniard Alejandro Valverde. The Santa Rosa, California native has made it no secret that intends to try to win the race against the clock, and he'll be considered the top favorite for gold when the racing starts.

Michael Rogers, former three time world time trial champion, will also be on hand to challenge for the rainbow jersey on behalf of Australia. He had a great ride in Beijing in both the time trial and road race, and has been steadily improving over the final portion of the season. If he can manage to net the win in Varese, his otherwise quiet season will have been considered an overwhelming success.

Sitjn Devolder of Belgium also should be considered for the victory, as the big Belgian engine has all the skill necessary to take top honors. He scored a historic win at the Tour of Flanders by time trialing away from the field, and although he had an off Tour de France, if he is on form he'll notch a top time.

Edvald Boasson Hagen of Norway, though only 21, could provide a major surprise in the time trial as well. The team Columbia rider absolutely tore it up at the recent Tour of Britain, and possesses great form ahead of the 43 kilometer test. He'll go top ten for sure, and with a bit of luck, even higher.

Other riders to watch include British time trial ace David Millar, French time trial champion Sylvain Chavanel, Germany's Tony Martin (only 23 years old), Italy's current national champion and 10 year veteran Marco Pinotti. Kim Kirchin of Luxembourg can ride against the clock, as can Spain's Ivan Gutierrez and Slovenia's Janez Brajkovic.

Finally, several controversial riders will be lining up for the time trial. Columbia's former world time trial champion Santiago Botero will hope for another gold after years of dealing with doping allegations, as will the Ukrain's Serhiy Honchar, who was dropped from Bob Stapleton's team Columbia for irregular blood values earlier in the year. Also riding for he gold in Varese will be former Astana strongman Vladimir Gusev. The "Goose" was kicked off the Kazakh team for irregular blood values, and will be keen to prove his doubters wrong on the roads in Varese.

One more wild card in the hunt for the rainbow jersey will be American David Zabriskie. Interviewing skills aside, Zabriskie is a master in racing against the clock, and will be right there when the race is decided. If he has any form left over after a solid second half of the season, DZ should be able to take a top ten placing for America. If he's on a particularly good day, perhaps he and teammate Levi could take two of three podium spots for the race.

Varese, Tuscany Preparing for Cycling World's, Riders Too

2008-09-21T00:13:00.000-07:00

The Varese area is buzzing as the best in the world of cycling prepare to contest the world championships in the nothern Italian town. The course already has barriers raised around the courses, signalling Italy's ability to put on a first-class event, and their pain staking attention to detail. Even the accreditation center is already up and running, catering to journalists from around the world.

I had heard that obtaining accreditation in Italy can sometimes be difficult. However, that was not the case for me. As I approached the desk a bit nervous, I was greeted by a smart looking woman wearing designer glasses and a UCI issued collared shirt. I hesitantly asked whether she spoke English. To my great delight, she was fluent in my native tongue, hailing from Toronto, Canada.

Checking for my name in the system, my info came up right away and I ws directed to a side room to have my picture taken. With a click of the digital camera, my image was placed neatly into a window on the comptuter screen, and moments later I was handed my shiny new UCI World Road Championships credential.

Two time world time trial champion Fabian Cancellara is the image that the organizers chose for the credential, in full aerodynamic time trial position. And as happy as I was to receive my credential, a host of other items also were handed my way. A 2008 Varese over the shoulder canvas bag was given to me, containing course details, city descriptions and various coupons. Also included was a poster commemorating this year's event, as well as a jar of local honey (Verese is known for it's honey production) branded with the world championship logo.

At the bottom of the bag also was a small coupon that said "Welcome Packet 1." I was directed to a kiosk at the far side of the room, and handed another canvas bag when I handed in the ticket. This was from the city of Varese itself. It contained several booklets describing the commerce and surrounding areas of Varese, as well as another poster for the 2008 championship. A DVD was also enclosed, a short movie about Varese and the upcoming week.

After shaking the hand of the man in charge, I strode back to my rental car and headed for my villa on Lake Lugano. When we arrived, we were treated to a stunning view of the lake, as well as the surrounding mountianside. I walked down to the road below, and just as I did I saw a CSC-Saxo rider streak by. He went by a bit too fast for me to identify, but that didn't matter. It was a clear reminder that the worlds are fast approaching, and I am situated firmly in the eye of the storm. It sould be an unforgettable week.

NOTE: IMAGE UPLOADING VERY TOUGH WHERE I AM LOCATED, WILL TRY TO UPDATE WITH IMAGES FROM AN ALTERNATE LOCATION

Heading for Hallowed Ground: Cycling World Championships, Varese, 2008

2008-09-18T21:08:00.001-07:00

The time has come to pack the bags and prepare to embark on the long trip to Tuscany and the 2008 cycling world championships. My anticipation level is astronomical; I can't wait to arrive in Milan. A week of cycling saturation awaits, with the pageantry and fanfare of the world championships spread out over w full week.

Due to the uncertainty of Internet access, my posting may become sporadic over the next several days. I will attempt to update as often as possible, and ideally, daily. I am planning on riding the world's course ahead of the elite women's and men's races, in hopes of describing the experience of riding the parcours. With luck, I'll hope to snag a slew of interviews from riders past and present. I have a tentative ride scheduled with Ivan Basso, Stefano Garzelli, and Andrea Peron. Hopefully it will pan out.

Before I leave for the journey, a few thoughts about the upcoming week.

Fabian Cancellara, if motivated to do so, could be a very cheeky pick for the road title. He is coming out of the Tour of Poland, and if he has found his form could be a legitimate threat for BOTH the road and time trial gold. Fear the Sparticus.

The American team will surprise in both the road and the time trial. Leipheimer is flying coming out of the Vuelta, and he'll have great support from the youngsters on the team surrounding him. He may not get the win, but I expect that the American contingent will ride aggressively and with great pride. Ditto in the time trial, where Zabriskie and Leipheimer both have a shot at the podium.

No one is mentioning Luxembourg as a threat for the road title. The Schlecks have been quiet over the last several weeks, as has Kim Kirchin. All three have the turn of speed, tactical know how and endurance to win on the road, and I wouldn't be surprised if one of the three does.

That's it for now, and thanks for reading.

Why Can't They? Five Underdogs that Could Shock the World in Varese

2008-09-17T19:27:00.000-07:00

We all know that Paolo Bettini and Oscar Freire are each attempting to make history in Varese at the world road cycling championships, and both are on great form. And we also know that Philippe Gilbert, Alejandro Valverde, Davide Rebellin, Sylvain Chavanel, and Stephan Schumacher too are the big favorites for the world road championship in Varese. But who can shock the world? Who can catch fire and surprise the field in Varese? A short list follows below.

Matti Breschel is on excellent form currently at the Vuelta. The 24 year old Dane has had a substantial 2008, including the win at the Philadelphia International Championship in June. The CSC one day star may try to make Varese his true breakout race, showing once and for all that he is to be reckoned with from 2009 forward.

Breschel's teammate Fabian Cancellara, if he decides to ride, must also be considered a darkhorse threat. Cancellara has shown his mettle before on climbing oriented races, including his near miss in Beijing on the road course. Who says the three time world time trial champion can't spring away from the field and shock the world? After all, he is Tony Sparticus.

Another Fabian, Fabian Wegmann of the now defunct Gerolsteiner squad is the two time defending German road champion, and more than capable of slipping away for the win. He has a tenacious, clawing style that lends itself nicely to one day riding. Being smaller, Wegmann also is able to climb well, so there's no saying he can't take the win for his native Germany. His new team Milram, would be delighted to have a three time German national champion wear the Milkmen blue and white.

Nick Nuyens is lesser known when mentioning top Belgian cyclists. Tom Boonen dominates Belgian headlines daily, and just behind him are Philippe Gilbert, Greg Van Avermaet and Wouter Weylandt. But Nuyens is a wily veteran who has learned the tactical side of racing over the last few years. He has a ferocious attacking style, and when on form has a way of attacking at just the right time. And speaking of Van Avermaet, he should be a marked rider as well for the Belgian squad.

Michael Rogers placed top ten in Beijing a few weeks ago in both the Olympic road race and time trial events, and has felt better and better after a tough early season. Rogers has never been able to take a high-profile victory, so he has a lot to prove in Varese. If Rogers falters, Matty Goss can get it done in one day events, and has a solid sprint kick.

There are other darkhorses in the field at Varese, some of whom will be explored in coming days on this site. But the above riders all deserve respect from their peers in the battle for the rainbowe jersey.

American World's Team Named: No Hincapie, Vande Velde

2008-09-16T14:46:00.000-07:00

The American roster for the upcoming world championships in Varese is a surprising one, with George Hincapie and Christian Vande Velde not appearing on the stars and stripes squad. Newly crowned US Pro champ tyler Hamilton too turned down an automatic invite to ride for America, to the surprise of many. Perhaps USA Cycling's lack of support of Hamilton during his suspension led him to turn down the invite.

With the voluntary withdraw of Hincapie, Vande Velde and Hamilton, USA Cycling chose to go young, including four up-and-coming Americans to support designated leader Levi Leipheimer. Columbia's Craig Lewis will make the trip, along with three Garmin riders: Lucan Euser, Steven Cozza and Tyler Farrar. Cozza will be valuable as a strong rouleur for the flats, while Euser will play spoiler when the climbs come. Farrar will hold the position of sprinter in the event of a bunch finish, while Craig Lewis will act as shephard for Leipheimer, keeping the Astana rider out of the wind until the finale.

Although inexperienced, the team for USA should be surprisingly competitive. Each rider chosen will have much to prove to to themselves and USA Cycling, which should mean that the Americans are active throughout the race. Expect the "Mustached Maurader" Cozza to get himself into an early break, and for Euser to try his luck on the climb that puncuates the finishing laps. Leipheimer meanwhile should be able to provide valuable veteran leadership to the Americans as they try to win the first world championship for America since 1993.