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Michele Acquarone willing to support Bakala about reforming cycling

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Michele Acquarone willing to support Bakala about reforming cycling
The Giro d’Italia Director, Michele Acquarone has noted that he was surprised to hear that Zdenek Balak is planning to introduce reforms in the sports the cycling.
While talking to Cyclingnews, he noted that the news came to him as a shock but considering the current situation, when cycling fans are dejected because of the doping controversies following the sport, it will actually be a good idea to introduce some positive
changes.
Michele briefed that the Giro d’Italia sponsor, RCS Sports would be more than happy to discuss any plans that can help the sport and everyone else around.
"We've spoken to people who want to try and change cycling last year and we made it clear that we're interested in any idea, in any proposal, that can help professional cycling grow and make it better for the fans and everyone involved," Acquarone told Cyclingnews.
"We believe that professional cycling should stay under the control of the UCI and under the auspices of the International Olympic Committee".
Bakala is the majority stake holder for the Belgian side, Team Omega Pharma-Quick Step and he presented the three-point plan to transform the professional cycling.
He suggested that the sponsor and TV revenues should be made available to tender more stability for the teams, along with forming an independent body to keep a close eye at the doping violations and finally, to create a closed 18-team configuration.
To support his argument, Bakala gave an example of the European Champions League football where the matches are organised by UEFA, the European governing body but, all the clubs are provided with enough financial bonuses depending on their performances.
He noted that the only reason behind the Champions league massive success is because of the fact that it is well organised and is loved by the football fans all across Europe.
However, Acquarone believes that cycling cannot be compared to football and should be given more open structure.
"But cycling isn't football, it has different traditions. I prefer to compare it to tennis, where there are the Grand Slam tournaments, the Masters and a whole series of other tournaments."
He made it clear that UCI has always handled the sport and he made his respect clear for the firm and noted that he has no uncertainties on Pat McQuaid and Hein Verbruggen’s abilities.

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