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Evans doubtful for Tour DownUnder

Cadel Evans remains interested in the London Olympics, but Adelaide's Tour Down Under might not fit into his Tour de France title defence.

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Source: AAP


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Cadel Evans remains interested in the London Olympics, but Adelaide's Tour Down Under might not fit into his Tour de France title defence.

The cycling star is in the midst of planning next year's racing schedule with his BMC team.

Evans this year became the first Australian to win the Tour de France and the July race will again be at the centrepiece of his 2012 program.

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His manager Jason Bakker said Evans would not vary much from this year's racing schedule, which worked so well for him.

But Evans is looking seriously at competing in the Olympics road race, which will be held only a few days after the Tour de France ends.

"He's strongly considering making himself available for Olympics selection," Bakker said.

"He's talking to the relevant people - team management and Cycling Australia staff - about it."

Evans did not race at the January Tour Down Under this year.

Race organisers are extremely keen for Evans to attend, either as a competitor or a special guest.

Bakker stressed that Evans had not ruled out the Tour, which is Australian cycling's top annual race.

"He'd love to be there, but he's got to consider what he can do," Bakker said.

"He certainly acknowledges the Tour Down Under's importance to Australian cycling.

"It's not out of the question, but it's unlikely."

The AFL invited Evans to attend the grand final as their special guest, but he will not return to Australia until the end of next month.

He made a special visit to Melbourne in early August for a street parade to celebrate his historic Tour de France win.

A major commitment for Evans in mid-October before he returns to Australia will be the official launch of next year's Tour de France route.


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