Astarloa looks for redemption

In September Italian-based Milram signed 2003 World Champion, Igor Astarloa. The 30 year-old Basque, formerly with Claudio Corti's Barloworld, signed a contract for the 2007 and 2008 seasons.

The suited Astarloa well, allowing him to compete in cycling's big races. In early 2006 he won the Milano-Torino, showing the same class that garnered him the World Championships and Flèche Wallonne in 2003.

"I expect to have a competitive spring," Astarloa explained to tuttobiciweb.com. "It is a benefit to be in a ProTour team and it is important to have the guarantee of participation in the most prestigious races."

Astarloa noted his form is ready for a grand 2007, "After many years of difficulties, this winter's training has been the best."