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

To be brutally honest, it's simple economics. If they want to come into cycling, sponsors need to know the team they are funding is clean, otherwise the risk is just too great.

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

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

Cycling is such a stupid sport. Next time you are in a car travelling at 40mph think about jumping out - naked. That's what it's like when we crash.

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.

There will always be cheaters. It is human nature. It will never be 100 percent clean, in any sport.