2012 Pro-cycling season thread

Contador's ban means his points won't count for the next two years. Riis has two options;

1. Use his remaining budget to buy riders with enough points to retain the team's World Tour status next year
   
2. Give up World Tour status and get invites to the major races, and with Contador on board that's likely to happen
   
   

I think he can only go for the first option if he gets a new title or co-sponsor.