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

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

I had grown used to getting a pat on the back and being told after a good result: 'Well done, David - you should be happy, you're the first clean rider.

People do make mistakes and I think they should be punished. But they should be forgiven and given the opportunity for a second chance. We are human beings.

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

It seemed romantic but also tragic - people would be winning but then lose it all, or crash but fight on, break bones but get back on their bikes and try to finish. Just getting to the end was seen as an achievement in itself.

I've been proud to be national champion.