Team Lampre-ISD and Team Liquigas-Cannondale interested to hire Franco Pellizotti for the season ahead
Franco Pellizotti is targeting his return to professional cycling after serving a two-year ban. The cyclist is determined to make it through to the top level of cycling and briefed that a number of teams have shown interest to sign him for the remaining part of the season.
He told the media, "There is interest in me from both Lampre-ISD and Liquigas-Cannondale and both of them have spoken to my agent, I would love to be at the Giro if it's possible though I would obviously have to find my race pace very quickly".
Franco Pellizotti was banned from professional cycling because of the “irregular blood values” after being investigated by the UCI.
The case was forwarded to Court of Arbitration for Sport and the jury was convinced that the cyclist cheated while his stay with Team Liquigas-Bianche in 2009.
Franco was hence banned from professional cycling for a period of two years. The announcement of the ban was made on March 2011 but it was back dated to May 2010.
He was also stripped off from all the victories since the Giro d’ Italia 2009 which includes a second place finish at the Giro and the 17thstage win at the race.
Pellizotti was also disqualified from the two stage wins at the Tour de France 2009 and also the King of Mountains Classifications at the race.
The 34-year-old is positive to leave his past behind and mark his return to professional cycling with a fresh start.
His ban period expires on 5th May, 2012 and is expected to make an appearance at this year’s Giro d’ Italia 2012.
Franco’s manager, Alex Carera briefed that Team Lampre has shown concerns about the cyclist’s mental and physical health. He also mentioned that the Italian side is inquiring about the exact date of Pellizotti’s return.
"The possible revocation of Saxo Bank's World Tour licence could reopen the door of the Giro to Acqua & Sapone, who, together with Farnese, has always shown some interest,” he stated.
Alex cited that Franco can be an ideal choice for Team Lampre and his main role would be to support Michele Scarponi at the Giro d’ Italia and can also take on the leading role at the French Grand Tour 2012.
Only time will tell, if Pellizotti manages to impress a World Tour side to continue his professional pursuit in the 2012 season.
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