I think the idea of raising the average salary to professionalize the sport is a noble one -- and necessary. I am not certain, however, that this would ameliorate the current doping situation. In fact, I imagine it might even heighten competitiveness, which would, in turn, lead to more doping. Just look at professional football. This is probably America's most successful sports model (in terms of wealth) and it is undoubtedly riddled with dope of all kinds. I would suggest that European soccer is similarly 'corrupt' in terms of doping, despite its incredible popularity and material success.

I would, in fact, suggest that cycling, of all professional sports, is most likely to become clean simply because of its lack of wealth. It is an easy target. It has become the scapegoat for professional sports in general, and certainly the straw man for Dick Pound. The scrutiny on cycling right now is incredibly intense.

The only thing that will help clean up doping in this ethos of heightened scrutiny is very severe, and also very fair punishment. I think we are working toward the former, but sadly deficient in the latter. Look at Basso. He has become a symbolic whipping-boy just as Ullrich before him. This is totally unacceptable. All those bags of blood should be opened and analyzed and everyone should be made accountable, not only riders but team staff.

Ah well, I could go on. I do think, though, that the issue of proper remuneration (and pension, etc.) of cyclists is separate from the doping issue. I do think that desperation would only increase if the financial stakes were raised. Which is why I think it's necessary to institute doping policies now that are (as mentioned) severe, yet fair.