Hi,
Because, with characters like Ekimov, we don't need Lance Armstrong around to continue the blatantly duplicitous behavior that reminds us of how entrenched the doping culture is in cycling.
In other words, if Ekimov is worried about having people who have aided and abetted organized doping, and its cover up, associated with the team then why doesn't he fire himself? Any team with Ekimov involved in a management role is intrinsically linked to doping.
Ekimov's spitting episode alone is a blatant example of cover-up and Omerta. Far worse than Zabel's distortion about the extent of his personal doping.
His firing of Zabel is almost comical.
Why did he hire Zabel in the first place? What experience and expertise was he looking for on Zabel's resume?
Is there doping in cycling?
I dunno, is Ekimov still in the sport?
Ekimov's management role promises hundreds, if not thousands, of new posting opportunities in the Clinic.
Dave.