Valverde cites 'extra incentive' in Basque win

Eurosport | Makes it look easy

Speaking after today's stage, Kelme's star racer, Alejandro Valverde, alluded to claims by former teammate Jesus Manzano that the team helped him use performance-enhancing drugs:

"I wanted to do well in this stage because the team is going through a lot of trouble thanks to the statements of a certain gentleman," Valverde said alluding to Manzano's detailed doping allegations within the Kelme squad.

The reigning world championships silver medallist flatly denied Manzano's allegations:

"When we heard about the statements, we were very surprised. But what this gentleman was saying is completely false and we've already started to see the consequences on him and I'm sure that at some point or another, everything will be solved."

Eurosport also notes Joseba Beloki's withdrawal from the race, suggesting Beloki was suffering form cramps.