Stay Classy, Boys

A great sprint finish at the Tour de France was marred by unsubstantiated accusations that are all too common in the sport. Stage 15 was won by Mark Cavendish of HTC-Highroad, a lightning rod for criticism like other high-performing cyclists over time. Before today’s stage, long-time rival Andre Greipel of Omega Pharma-Lotto claimed that Cavendish had broken the rules to finish yesterday’s mountain stage by hanging on to a car. After racing, an angry Tyler Farrar of Garmin-Cervelo implied a similar accusation without referring to Cavendish by name. He was also recorded on camera saying to teammate Thor Hushovd, “He shouldn’t even be racing.”

There is no evidence to back up the claims. In an unrelated interview, Bob Stapleton, owner of HTC-Highroad, stated that Cavendish had difficulty finishing the Stage 14 climbs and that the team’s sole focus was to help him make the time cut. This makes sense. Further, Versus commentators stated that they reviewed footage and found no proof of the accusations. They also reminded the audience that even when race referees are not present, the course is lined with spectators who recognize Cavendish and have cameras in their hands, yet no evidence has appeared.

The nasty comments by Greipel and Farra reflect poorly on them. Sadly, unsubstantiated accusations happen all the time in cycling, such as last year’s buzz that Fabian Cancellara had an engine hidden in his bike and the ever-present hints of doping. Cycling fans and online and print media frequently fan the flames of ugliness. All of this empty negativity hurts the sport.

To be honorable competitors, Greipel, Farrar, and all riders should run their own races and take up any grievances with race referees. For the sake of the sport we love, cycling media should always start with the facts, and fans should look to the accomplishments of these amazing athletes, rather than the spoiled sports.

Let’s get back to the world’s most amazing bike race! May the best man win.