A glance over the results list of the last decade or so of the Giro d’Italia has unfortunately included a high proportion of riders who have been implicated in doping practices. The race has had more than its fair share of problems, and while cycling is much loved in Italy and the tifosi remain passionate about the sport, its clear that continuous pressure needs to be applied to effect a change in culture.
The current doping investigation into the Lampre-ISD team and others is a further sign that much work needs to be done. The UCI’s biological passport has improved the situation and the general perception is that the sport is cleaner than before, but the battle is an ongoing one.
As part of this, the Giro d’Italia features an anti-doping initiative backed by sportgoverno.it, RAI and Radiouno. Entitled ‘Niente doping solo sport,’ it has a presence at the start village each day, and is handing out plastic bottles to members of the public and generally spreading an anti-doping message. A total of 50,000 bottles will be distributed during the Giro.
VeloNation spoke to one of those involved with the initiative, learning about the philosophy behind it, the project and the reception it has received.