Cunego concludes demanding season at home

Italian Damiano Cunego, winner of the Giro di Lombardia and Japan Cup, will close out his 2008 season at home. He and his family will remain at in Verona instead of travelling to warmer climes.

"Usually it is the beach, the sun, the warmth, but I will remain here this year. I will enjoy the time with my family and fans. Maybe it will allow me more time to take advantage of the some extra invitations," said Team Lampre's Cunego, 27, to La Gazzetta dello Sport during the EICMA bicycle trade show.

Cunego had a long and demanding season. He focused his spring on the training for the Tour de France and won the Amstel Gold Race in the process. Though the Tour did not go as planned, he shot back in the fall with second behind teammate Ballan at the World Championships, first in Lombardia and Japan. He is happy to now spend time off of his bike.

"It's been a little while since I have seen my bike. It should be in the garage, but I cannot swear to that. It was a long and adventurous season; I wanted to close it with Lombardia, in grand style, but I accepted the Japanese challenge. I did well."

Cunego will once again aim for the Ardennes Classics and the Grand Tours for 2009.