"Put Up Or Shut Up," Says Steegmans to UCI; Liquigas to Philly

Steegmans, perhaps in anticipation of becoming a team leader next year, has called out the UCI for their veiled report of doped cyclists

Quick Step sprinter Gert Steegmans, 27, channelled wisdom far beyond his age in calling out the UCI over their announcement that 23 riders and "one top rider" are under suspicion for doping after test analyses from the new anti-doping passport program. An angry Steegmans declared, "It is a perfect example of how not to deal with such things. Why was that announced in this way? Either you say the full names, or you shut up and go about your business."

Bravo.

Steegmans, speaking on behalf of other riders, wondered aloud why the UCI has absolutely no professionalism when it comes to dealing with the sanctioning process. As usual, they have decided to create an environment of fear and uncertainty just days ahead of a grand tour. And like in the 2006 Tour de France, the peloton waits anxiously to learn who the suspected riders are, and which teams may face repercussions as a result of the allegations. In what is sure to be a long Friday, teams will wait for an announcement to be made the day before the Giro begins in Palermo.

If one of Liquigas' big three (Bennati, Pozzato, Pellizotti) take the start at the Triple Crown, fans will be ecstatic

Meanwhile, in America, positive news for the Triple Crown of Cycling event in Pennsylvania, as the Italian Liquigas team is confirmed as a late addition for the three race series. The acid green and blue squad, who recently signed new anti-doping ambassador Ivan Basso, will be on hand to contest the legendary Liberty Classic race on Sunday, June 7th in Philadelphia. American fans will remain hopeful that Daniele "Benna" Bennati, the recovering Italian sprinter, will be on hand to contest the series ahead of his bigger objective for 2008, the Tour de France. The addition of the Pro Tour squad is good for the race, it's organizers and the fans, as the inclusion of the Italian outfit will add color and talent to an already strong field.