Geoff wrote:Sorry, that Stage 17 win was a fabulous display of Contador's tactical nous. Puerto had no idea what was happening until it was way too late. Unfortunately, it just didn't work in the Tour, but at least he tried everything possible. I am sure he can sleep better knowing that.
I'm sure he would have slept better if he's won the Tour and returned to Spain his standing further increased.
If I could do spot betting on cycling I would make a small fortune betting on him blowing up and getting caught. Still, I rather doubt the level headed bookies would offer attractive odds once they've crushed the "post ban" data.
No doubt spain has the reputation and a past but let's not cry foul at people questioning Gollum's amazing climbs this summer but apply the same innuendo to others because they are Spanish? Contador has his past but what about 2012 warrants that statement?
Spanish riders winning Vueltas with extraordinary performances. The Puerto case. The attitude of the society right the way up to the judges and prime minister.
It's a cultural difference that I simply cannot overlook. If someone can demonstrate any similar pattern that exists with regards to the British public, British Cycling and team Sky then I would have to consider it. Enough people have stated there is no reason for suspicion with regards to Froome's Tour performances. Only playground trolls still seem to seek something.
By the way, I'm not entertained by Sky's style of riding but I am impressed by the application of science and the methodology used to win in what is not a very TV friendly discipline. National pride? Not really. I consider Froome to be a Kenyan. The application of science is rarely entertaining but it does win sports events. You want entertaining? Watch another sport.