One of Italy's favourite cycling sons, Francesco Moser, has been quick to comment on the announcement of Lance Armstrong's intention to ride the Giro d'Italia in 2009. Speaking with La Gazzetta dello Sport, the 1984 Giro champion said that, "At 37 years old, to return to racing after three years of retirement is a choice that I do not understand, and it seems risky to me. Moser's skepticism could be seen when he said that, "It's as if I announced that I would go back to racing; it seems impossible. We can believe it only when it's clear that he'll be at the start."
Meanwhile, Italian national champion Filippo Simeoni, who was involved in a controversial episode with Armstrong during the 2004 Tour de France has also commented upon the participation of the Texan at next year's Giro. "It's curious that he is already 'safe to participate' and me, with the national champion's jersey on, doesn't yet not know if my team will be selected."
When asked whether there would be any uneasiness riding alongside Armstrong should his Ceramica Flaminia - Bossini Docce squad be chosen to participate, Simeoni replied, "Well, I certainly wouldn't ride with a spirit of revenge; I personally do not feel bitterness, hatred or revenge."
At the time of their stoush in France four years ago, long-time Armstrong associate Michele Ferrari was on trial after being accused of sporting fraud and improper exercise of the profession of pharmacy. Simeoni was one of the main witnesses in the case and the emotions of the case spilled out onto proceedings on the road. Initially sentenced to one year of imprisonment, Ferrari was later acquitted in the second degree by the Court of Appeals of Bologna.
Cyclingnews' recent coverage of Lance Armstrong's comeback
