Vino solos to a clean win in Liege-Bastogne-Liege.

Vino wins Liege-Bastogne-Liege

Alexander Vinokourov took his second LBL victory, but was forced to defend his credentials, rather than milk the plaudits. Today’s victory was his largest since returning to racing last year, after a 24 month ban for doping violations.

“I condemn doping and I am working hard to prove my victories are clean”

With only Alexander Kolobnev reacting, Vino jumped clear of his rivals with 15km to go and quickly built a 30 second lead with the Russian rider to battle for the win. With both riders having a reputation for an aggressive, relentless riding style it was to be an intriguing showdown of old and young Eastern Block rider. In the end it was the older rider with more detractors than fans that won out, Vinokourov simply riding Kolobnev off his wheel. Jeers rather than cheers met Vino as he raised his arms on the finishing line and during the post race interview, he was again forced to defend his past;

“I always had class as a rider and I worked hard during my two years’ ban to be able to come back and be productive at a high level. Last year, I was already winning races and this year I am even better. I don’t want to talk about it anymore. We are here to talk about my victory. I paid two years and now I want to show I can win without doping.”

Today’s was Vinokourovs second victory at Leige-Bastogne-Leige, his first coming in 2005.

“Today was a dream fulfilled. My dream is now to start the Tour with Alberto [Contador] and to be on the Champs-Elysees with Alberto.”

It has yet to be confirmed by ASO, the Tour de France organiser, as to whether Vinokourov will be permitted to follow his dream further. It was at the 2007 Tour that he was ignominiously dumped out due to a failed doping control, which then resulted in his racing ban.

Published Sunday 25 April 2010

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