I've been proud to be national champion.

I'll go [racing] until my body won't let me any more. Someone said to me: "The day you stop, you won't be able to get back on the same way as when you did as a pro." I want to delay that kiss goodbye as long as possible.

Now there are two or three teams who are very ethical in their outlook who have opened up the economic benefits and that is probably going to be a turning point in the sport.

But human nature dictates that there will always be cheaters. That's inevitable. Where there's money involved and glory, there are going to be people that cheat, and there will always be ways to cheat.

The manner in which one loses the battle can sometimes outshine the victory.

I was awarded 'Most Aggressive Rider of the Day', generally given to the most spectacular loser of the day.

In Italy it's full-on stardom when you're a cyclist - eating in restaurants for free, it's great.