- Apr 1, 2009
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I think as others have noted that it's not just the Italians having a hard time but look back for the last 20 years and it has mostly been the spanish and Americans winning! You could ask the question where are all of the other great cycling nations? France has been mentioned but what about Holland? Belgium? Germany? ..... and you Brits!!!! I would argue that the Italians are doing ok with Pantani and Basso in the past. Ricardo Ricci was my hope last year but we all know what happened there don't we. It's not like GT riders grow on trees, not even in Italy, I'm afraid.
I am an Italian fan, I have to admit and I would love to see an Italian win the tour, we all know it is THE race. Or at least THE stage race. But for the Italian teams and their sponsors (and me) the Giro is the most important, yes other races are important and the Italians do well in the classics and worlds but the Giro is important and I would argue just as tough as the TF.
Who knows may be Basso will be ready for the tour next year and if not RR will be back in a few years as well. ( for better or for worst)
I am an Italian fan, I have to admit and I would love to see an Italian win the tour, we all know it is THE race. Or at least THE stage race. But for the Italian teams and their sponsors (and me) the Giro is the most important, yes other races are important and the Italians do well in the classics and worlds but the Giro is important and I would argue just as tough as the TF.
Who knows may be Basso will be ready for the tour next year and if not RR will be back in a few years as well. ( for better or for worst)