Now Ulrich's got the challenge of Kloden and Vinokourov from his own team. How long can the ambitions of his own talented teamates be stalled assisting him with a win? They have every right to contend the tour for their own Palmares.
There is no such competition on Discovery team. Ulrich's been at the top of his game since 1997. Historically, few men have been able to launch a competitive assault on the Yellow Jersey for such a long time.
Then there are other young rising stars including Ivan Basso and others who have yet to be determined. I believe we'll be seeing some new faces fighting for the lead this year.
I will be pleasantly surprised if Jan places higher than he did last year. The entire tour is a much better event when Jan is pressuring the frontrunners.