Astana's Vladimir Gusev was fired today after his blood tests revealed abnormal values. The current Russian time trial champion, Gusev will undoubtedly find it hard to secure a contract with any other team after this latest revelation. I would like to be the first to say how glad I am that he is gone from the pro cycling scene.
I met Gusev at this past year's Tour of California. I asked him for an interview. Looking sullenly down at the ground, he mumbled "yes" and off we went. The interview lasted three questions. Gusev answered each one with one to two words before riding away as fast as he could. Behind him, Janez Brajkovic shook his head, dissapointed.
Brajkovic approached me, and stated "That was very unprofessional. He should have given you a better interview." I spoke with the former Tour de Georgia winner for a few minutes, before wishing him well for the rest of the season. Gusev, whom I saw several times the rest of the week, was never again asked a question by me.
Gusev's talent is undeniable, but due to his sour personality, I'm glad to see him go. Here is a rider that really has never attained any big result in his career, yet is as aloof as if he were the greatest athlete ever. I wonder if we'll ever hear from him again. Sure he's young, but is it likely that another team would take a chance on him? Perhaps Rock Racing would, or the new Russian Katuysha team would be willing. Either way, he's gone for now, along with his bad attitude.
Posts
0 comments:
Post a Comment