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23 June 2005

24 June News ...

Vinokourov to Discovery Channel?

It is nothing more than speculation at this point, but there are rumors that Kazakh hard-man, Alexander Vinokourov, could be going to the American formation, Discovery Channel. Vino (T-Mobile) is playing his cards close to his chest on this one, but has admitted that his destiny is not at the disposal of Jan Ullrich. He added, "Perhaps not this year, but I hope to win the Tour de France in two years. I have to improve on my third place."

Checking in with T-Mobile, Ullrich had this to say, "He is one of the best riders in the world and it's normal that Lance's team would be interested in him."

Discovery has been anticipating Armstrong's retirement for some time now and has looked to reinforce their roster after his departure. Yaroslav Popovych should blossom in the next few years and become a potentially great GC rider, but it is unknown still if he can thrive at the Tour de France. Vino, on the other hand, has had a podium place at the Tour, as well as a stage victory. His prowess on the bike is a virtual guarantee of some success at the Tour. Stay tuned to BiciRace.com as this story develops.

Davitamon-Lotto announces Tour de France Roster

The Belgian squad, Davitamon-Lotto, has officially divulged the nine riders that will comprise their Tour de France line-up. Cadel Evans will head the boys from Belgium along with the experienced Axel Merckx. Backing them up will be Mario Aerts, Wim Vansevenant, Johan Vansummeren, Christophe Brandt, Leon Van Bon, Robbie McEwen and Fred Rodriguez.

Evans will be riding for a high GC place, while stage victory duties will go to McEwen, Van Bon and Rodriguez. Aerts and Merckx will be valuable support riders for the Aussie, Evans, who will be looking to reverse his fortunes after a disastrous couple of years at the T-Mobile outfit.
- Paco

For more 92nd Tour de France info read the 92nd Tour de France preview or look at all of the stages.

Tour de France Classifications: Maillot Blanc à Pois Rouges

The 92nd Tour de France starts soon and BiciRace.com is thinking about the cols (mountains). Maillot Blanc à Pois Rouges or simply, the 'polka dot jersey', is awarded to the man with the fast climbing legs. The Tour de France is littered with cols, or mountains, to test the strength of the climbers. At the top of each of these cols are points awarded, depending on the climbs caliber. The higher the mountain, the more pain and points, you get the idea. The French fans, and fans around the world, go nuts over this competition. Wear this polka-dot jersey for a few days and you are cool, wear it at the end of a three week knife-fight, and you are legend.

Want to know more? Read the complete Tour de France classification break-down.

22 June News ...