Contador turned down a four-year offer worth 4 million Euros per season that would have included his remaining year under his current contract and three more seasons through 2013.

There you go. Alberto told Astana 'Nyet'.

So there is a little money in pro cycling after all. We all know if he were a ballplayer with those credentials he'd be good for at least five times that amount, but 4 million Euros ain't so bad. Plus all those endorsements.

Ay Carramba $$$$$$$$$.

Oh, and spare me 'they're not Russians, they're Khazaks' speech. Please. I'm from the Baby Boomer Dr. Strangelove mindset. They're all Russkie Commie Bastages to me.