Coach Interview: Aldo Sassi was one of the best coaches at a time when many riders were relying on more than 'pane e acqua'. Sassi wouldn't touch a rider if they 'dabbling', but he did produce stars... and Ivan Basso.

The announcement of Ivan Basso's retirement from competition has thrown Lee Rodgers off his original subject of the Giro di Lombardia. As these things go, one thing led to another and he has broadened his horizons for a good rant at all things doping, team management, celebrity, the UCI and that man Armstrong.

Ivan Basso was diagnosed with a tumor in his left testicle and has to undergo operation for its removal.