xfimpg

Let's say that Ullrich did decide to make a comeback...

Who would take him?

Is he too old to be a real contender?

Would he still be GC material?

Would he accept to play babysitter?


My take is that no one would sign him because of age and doping allegations from 2006.

Does anyone see differently? (what a question to ask on BF)

Let's discuss.

Reid Rothchild

He still has the talent but is not mentally strong enough to compete....I'm not saying that as a knock. I just don't think he cares anymore and he probably happy he doesn't have to keep up the fraud anymore as opposed to his main rival who is nuts...

Namenda

Not too old (two years younger than Armstrong), but his fitness level and commitment are suspect. Not to mention the fact that he has already denied any intention of returning.

As for being unable to find a team due to suspicion of doping, let's not forget that Hamilton is presently employed, as is Landis for next season. Sinkewitz will be back, too. Hell, Ricco will be riding for another top team, eventually.

BryE

Basso signed with Liquigas, and will become an active rider on the first of November - I'm sure he'll be on the Tour roster. I don't see any doping-related reason why Ulle couldn't come back - he just has to want it. Someone would surely take him.

Should be an interesting Tour next year, at any rate.

xfimpg

I'm certainly looking forward to it.

USAZorro

Reports have Jan and Vino riding around Bavaria sampling beer and brats.

Jan won't be back as a rider.

Sci-Fi

Well...was watching the UCI Road World Championships in Varese and there were men and women about his age winning events (like Paolo Bettini and Amber Neben) and Jeannie Longo is about 50 and is still riding well.

Depends on the cyclist and if they feel mentally and physically able to compete at a high level. Of course if one gets busted in their drug tests, it's harder to come back without the persistent distrust of your results as being legit. Unless Ullrich needs the cash, it might be better to stay retired from the sport or ride in other events...the one day ones or another discipline where he can have fun and a new challenge. Could be a big draw to an event, so he can get a few extra bucks from the organizers.

erader

ullrich recently said that armstrong has plenty of money and women and yet it doesn't satisfy him so that's why he's coming back.

i think that's a tell on ullrich who was undeniably one of the biggest disappointments in tour history .

ed rader