There is a distinct scent of anger originating from the organizers of the Giro del Trentino this morning. The race apparently just received word that the Cofidis team will not be taking part in the critical Giro prep race, which starts today in Riva del Garda.
Unsurprisingly, the race administration was less than thrilled. Trentino secretary, Nerino Ioppi, responded angrily to the news.
"We are very disappointed with the behavior of the French team, and we intend to bring the case to the UCI in order to obtain reimbursement for our expenses, and also to receive guarantee that the team will not participate in another race over the same time period of our race," said Ioppi.
With the loss of Cofidis, 18 teams will take the start of the four day race, which begins today with a time trial in Riva del Garda. While today's time trial will be important, two days in the Dolomites will likely decide the overall and provide the last bit of preparation for many of the Giro d'Italia's contenders.