LPR's signing of Savoldelli confirmed

Reports of the transfer of Paolo Savoldelli to LPR for 2008 were confirmed Saturday with news that the two-time Giro d'Italia winner had signed his contract.

Savoldelli intends to make the Giro his goal again for 2008 after winning in 2002 and 2005 and wearing the maglia rosa for 14 days of his career. "For Italians, the Giro is fascinating. I am hoping organziers will invite my team," said the Italian. He rode for Astana in 2007 and won a time trial stage of this year's edition of the Giro.

Despite having raced as a pro since 1996, Savoldelli goes into 2008 with the excitement of a young racer. The 34 year-old said, "I cannot contain my enthusiasm. I see the hour when I will return to the saddle. I am getting over a small bout of the flu, but as soon as it passes, I will get back to training."