One-time 2006 winner, Floyd Landis

The two riders who have worn the yellow jersey onto the Champs-Elysées for the past two Tour de France races - Floyd Landis and Alberto Contador - have been in the news again.

As the cycling world learnt from the May to September 2007 case, not only did Landis have a questionable Manager, but the USADA got their way and a two year ban - effective from January 2007 - was handed out to the American.

But Landis' lawyers were also able to bring to light some 'questionable' practices by the French Lab and the arbitration panel were split 2-1 in imposing the ban. Landis has since appealed the findings and a date has now been set. Landis will get his day in court (again) on March 19.
But the real issue is still to be answered - Does anyone really care anymore? Or has the cycling world just moved on?

The Contador 'case' could well evolve into one of the biggest stories come July this year. The Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) have decided to call over 50 riders - including Contador and his fellowman, Alejandro Valverde - to testify in the practices of Dr Fuentes. Both riders were cleared by the Spanish Cycling Governing Body, but under Italian legislation, any rider can be sanctioned for doping offences. Any imposed ban by CONI is only effective in Italy.

But with 2008 World Championships to be held in Italy this year, some riders could be prohibited from starting. And with the 2008 Tour de France also spending time on Italian soil, reigning champion Contador (provided his Astana team is even invited) could be a big-name non-starter.

© Michael Holden