Basso had heavy conscience

After spending ten months denying any wrongdoing, the Giro d'Italia winner admitted his guilt to prosecutors on Monday with the prospect of a DNA test to confirm his innocence looming.

"He did what he did because he loves his sport," said Massimo Martelli. "We looked eachother in the eyes and agreed it would be better to relieve this heavy burden from his shoulders.

"He was not comfortable with himself, he was not okay with himself, he was very nervous and always in trouble.

"During the questioning by the first commissioner he felt better and he started his co-operation. Now he feels good," Martelli added.

Fleche-Wallonne winner Davide Rebellin lent his support to his compatriot, and also looked ahead to the Giro d'Italia, which has now been thrown wide open now Basso will not be defending his crown.

"I hope that Basso can react to this difficult situation," he said.

"The investigation can't take away all the victories he recorded since he was a boy. Without him, the Giro will certainly be much more competitive with [Damiano] Cunego, [Gilberto] Simoni and [Paolo] Salvoldelli all capable of winning, especially during the climbs scheduled in the final week."