Iban and the classics

Iban on the podium in Liège in 2003

When Iban was becoming one of the world`s leading cyclists in the year of 2003, he noted himself not only as a brilliant climber, but also as a very good and promising classics rider. His good 16th place in Fleche was followed up by an amazing second in Liège, and a new classic star was born, many thought. Though, this didn`t materialise. Why not?

In the years of 2003 and 2004, Iban was at his very best. Not only did he win mountain stages, he won on hilly terrain and even won when breaking free from the peloton on a sprinter`s course 2 km. from the finish. He was considered an all-rounder, if you look away from the TTs. His spring campaign in the classics was extraordinary. Second in Liège was noteworthy indeed, as he came close to be the first Spanish winner of the prestigious race. But, after the infamous 2003 Tour, Iban`s goals and objectives changed dramatically, at least that what it looks like. No more classics, just stage-races and the Tour. Don`t think that was the wisest decision he`s ever taken. After a dismall last half of 2004, and a bad, to say the least, 2005 season, Iban returned to the spring classics this season. Though he didn`t intend to peak for them, he was in good condition, and showed what he is worth in hilly classics with an 18th. and 23rd. place in Fleche and Liège respectively. He then rode the Clasica San Sebastian-San Sebastian, where he had a brilliant ride, and probably was the strongest in the bunch. He didn`t record any result of note though, as he was reeled in with 5 km. to go. But nevertheless, Iban`s classic campaign 2006 has been a success.

Next year, I hope that Iban will ride the classics with Saunier as a captain. He`s got all the necessary qualities to win either one of the three Ardennes classics, and I sincerely hope he will exploit that potential.