Basso just got signed
2006-12-08 05:08:10 · 7 answers · asked by Madrider 4 in Sports ➔ Cycling
Good answers everybody! I just read this weekend that the UCI does not want Discovery Team in the Pro Tour. Thoughts?? I'm sure this has to do with the signing of Basso.
2006-12-10 23:51:02 · update #1
I think they have a good chance to win both, and by my estimation have to be the favorites. Ivan Basso is one of the best, if not the best, cyclist in the world. I think he would have won the Tour this year if not for Operacion Puerto. However, if Jan Ullrich manages to find a new team, Floyd Landis clears his name, they would have to be in the coversation, too. Also, don't overlook Alexander Vinokourov. He had a great Vuelta, and is among the early favorites to contend for a Tour title.
Also, at the end of the season, we saw Alejandro Valverde bounce back nicely from a broken collarbone. He is a competent time trialist, and an exceptional climber. I expect in the grand tours this year, for Basso, Valverde, and Vinokourov to be in contention for each.
Basso is a good signing for Disco- gives them another great rider to fill Lance's huge shoes- look for Disco to be very competitive for years to come, I think. But what do I know?
2006-12-08 06:24:22 · answer #1 · answered by jbsol 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
With Johan, the team always has a chance to win. Basso is a world class rider - so is Leipeimer and Hincapie. I really think the team needs to decide on a leader, though. I think having 1 leader with everyone having clearly defined roles is the key to winning the Tour de France. As much as I love Levi - I think Basso is the stronger rider overall. Do I think he can win the Giro and the Tour - yes. If that is what his main focus is and his team sticks to their rolls and he has more good days than bad and he stays out of crashes - then yes. (That is why cycling is so great - because all of things out of your control)! Vive Le Tour!
2006-12-08 11:40:58 · answer #2 · answered by Juls 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
They definitely helped themselves out with Basso. Pulling off the double isn't impossible, but it's tough. Everyone has to remain healthy & avoid injuries. Basso likes the Giro and has history there & Bruyneel always likes to concentrate on the TdF. Could happen. Can't wait until the Spring!
2006-12-09 00:34:26 · answer #3 · answered by crazydave 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would say any team with Basso has a good shot at winning the tour, provided he doesn't get booted for doping allegations again.
Discovery should be strong. Not sure how happy Levi will be!
2006-12-08 10:36:00 · answer #4 · answered by rab 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The field is wide open, anybody could win, with Basso Discovery has a good shot.
2006-12-11 11:15:17 · answer #5 · answered by tesorotx 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
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2016-12-13 05:15:36 · answer #6 · answered by mcgarr 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think he automatically becomes the favorite - he's got the talent, and the Discovery Channel team is very strong when able to support a clear favorite. Not to mention, Johan Bruyneel is a tactical genius.
2006-12-09 07:02:58 · answer #7 · answered by kalaka 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋