Galdeano and Beloki ill

Liberty Seguros' Igor González de Galdeano has finally found out what has been weakening him these last weeks, resulting in his abandon of Paris-Nice. The medical analyses carried out a few days ago have indicated a cytomegalovirus (CMV), a viral infection similar to mononucleosis. The doctors have prescribed Galdeano antibiotics and a rest for two weeks to fully recover.

Meanwhile, Giampaolo Caruso will take his place at the start of the Setmana Catalana. Liberty Seguros will also have Roberto Heras, Marcos Serrano, Alberto Contador, Nuno Ribeiro, Koldo Gil, Dariusz Baranowski and Isidro Nozal at the Spanish stage race taking place from March 21-25.

Joseba Beloki is also ill at the moment, suffering an allergic infection. Although his condition is already improving, he will not race until the Tour de Romandie, which he will use as preparation for the Giro d'Italia.