Pro-cycling thread

As an example, I know of a rider, at the very highest level, who saw something suspicious and instead of telling a journalist, they shared it with the relevant anti-doping authorities. That story has never, to the best of my knowledge, appeared in the public domain which shows integrity given the gossip worthy nature of the story.

I'm still kind of in the middle on this. How did the situation develop in the case you described @andyp? did the bad things stop?

Carry on...

I'd be tempted to do both. Arguably journalists have done more in the fight against cycling doping than the authorities, especially when it comes to cover-ups.

The rider under suspicion was banned.

Sorry @elswick when I was told the story I promised I'd never post it online. I can share it over a beer when that is permitted though...

I guess its impossible to know what's gone on behind the scenes but ideally, yes.

So a rider was banned but it was never made public?

Just thinking ‘I’ll just have a few quid on Pidcock e/w - let’s see what the odds are’.

I can only think he’s been backed down to that ridiculous price. The lad has done two world tour races and he’s shorter odds that Fuglsang.

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They are at opposite ends of the age spectrum and everything in the past two years has shown younger riders have the edge. Not surprised. What race is that for?

It was very public. But the rider in question was banned for a positive test, not for the incident I’ve obliquely referred to.

strada

highest level

London Cross League before you was with the seniors?

JTL

The very highest level.

You can’t have an NDA against something that is illegal. DSM are surely digging a hole here because such allegations can only backfire on any contract with ISN?

Very much looking forward to the weekends racing, tactically planned painting of a small room to safeguard being able to watch it.

Oof

Was it Lance?

I’d like Jules or Wellens to win, but it could suit Pog.

Although I’d put money on Wout, I’m hoping it doesn’t turn into a Wout/MvdP battle. I’ve had my fill from the cross season.

If it is PEDs, and its a PED that isn't a controlled substance, it isn't actually illegal is it? Just a breach of WADA Protocols?

Think that depends on jurisdiction?

Wellens would be a really popular winner.

I feel that MVDP, WVA and Alaphilippe are a level above when they’re on form. Really struggling to see past one of them.

Weather forecast is disappointingly fine.

Jumbo have been saying that Wout isn't firing on all cylinders yet.

Last year Fuglsang looked good for a large part of the race and then he was very impressive with the win in Lombardia so I think he'll be in the mix.

Hard not to back Alaphillipe though. The parcours suit him and there are so many opportunities to attack and make it stick. If he gets away it'll be down to riders to work together to pull him back and we know how that worked out at the World Champs last year.

I’d be happy with Jules battling Wellens for final 15 with a dusty rainbow jersey crossing the finish line first in tears. He’d probably collapse theatrically in the Campo.

Wout and Pidders in epic battle for third following punctures and MvdP out with a fretted seatpost.

15k now raised by fans for Strade Bianche prize pot.

Powerful message.

Really interesting lack of coverage by Cycling press, Cycling Tips and Velonews seem to be on it tho...