of Domina Vacanze, for a reported ?3 million per year; ?2 million per year for Petacchi and the rest for his lead-out men, Marco Velo, Fabio Sacchi, and Matteo Tosatto.

Unfortunately, the departure of Petacchi does mean the end for his current team, Fassa Bortolo, as team manager Giancarlo Ferretti has been unable to find a replacement sponsor without the sprinter.  "It is with great regret that I communicate the conclusion of the Fassa Bortolo team at the end of 2005," said Ferretti in a statement. "The team started in 2000 and had planned, for some time, to finish after six years. It has achieved some great successes, it has always ridden at the top of international cycling, and it has seen the birth of a champion loved and admired by all in Alessandro Petacchi."

Because of Fassa Bortolo?s departure, Swiss rider Fabian Cancellara has agreed to sign for Team CSC.  The strong time trial rider is expected to help boost Ivan Basso?s chances of victory in the Tour next year.

Send your comments and thoughts through to me at ian@roadcycling.com.

Until next week?

Ian