the problem that is astana

There is an excellent piece on BKW about the current state of affairs at Astana. Much has been written lately about the financial problems the team is facing but it's the rider dynamics that I find the most fascinating. Like a football manager with a handful of star players with planet sized egos, Johan Bruyneel has an embarrassment of riches that present a number of problems. Contador, as a three-time Grand Tour winner, believes that he should be the undisputed team leader heading into the Tour de France. Arguably the best stage race rider and the best climber in the world, this would normally be something of a no brainer. But Astana also has Lance. And Levi. On the surface, Bruyneel's problem would seem to be good one to have, but as the Tour approaches his situation seems less and less enviable. The easiest solution would be if Armstrong, despite all his efforts, cannot regain the form he left the sport with in 2005. He showed at the Giro that he is more than willing to ride for others and so would provide Contador with another super domestique of the highest order. But the Giro also showed that Armstrong is beginning to find real form, ending the race strongly and exerting some influence on the peloton like the days of old. As BKW correctly pointed out, if it comes down to an internal struggle, Lance may be the old dog but guys like Chris Horner and Popo will ride for him before they turn a pedal stroke in anger for anyone else. The likes of Andy Schleck, Cadel Evans and Carlos Sastre would surely be quick to pounce on any Astana in-fighting that manifested itself on the road. I guess this is why Bruyneel gets paid the big bucks. Wait, is he still getting paid? It's going to be interesting...