If Lance Loses GC and Stage Wins, Major Reshuffling Would Take Place

Now that there is a possibility seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong could have his tour titles stripped, the cycling world is curious to see who would end up being awarded the tour victories.

Italian GC rider Ivan Basso could be given the 2005 tour victory–Basso actually served a doping ban when linked to Operacion Puerto, though his 2006 Giro d’Italia victory was left intact.

German cyclist Jan Ullrich, one of Armstrong’s biggest rivals throughout their respective cycling careers, would suddenly be awarded three tour victories (2000, 2001, and 2003).  Ullrich stood on the top podium of the Tour once, so he would have a total of four overall Tour de France yellow jerseys.

Since retiring–and subsequently banned from cycling–Ullrich has battled the German cycling association, the media, and critics.  Recently, however, he admitted he enjoys retirement and has fully established his life post-cycling career.  The German rider wants to leave behind the politics and drama of the pro peloton, and he hasn't made a public statement just yet.

Swiss rider Alex Zulle (1999), Spanish cyclist Joseba Beloki (2002) and German rider Andreas Kloden (2004) would also be awarded Tour victories if Lance were to have his Tour title stripped.

In addition to the overall GC wins awarded to other riders, Armstrong’s 22 individual stages would need to be delegated to other riders.

Being a Tour de France winner is a major accomplishment, but no rider hopes to receive the yellow jersey in such a controversial, depressing manner. 

When Team RadioShack-Nissan-Trek rider Andy Schleck was awarded the yellow jersey due to Alberto Contador’s doping ban, he mentioned that it wasn’t quite like standing on the top step of the podium himself.

There is still a lengthy process before Armstron'g Tour titles are taken from him, but it's a major threat against one of the best cyclists ever.