The Tour de France has been battered with doping controversy the last couple of years. Enough so, that it seems any conversation about cyclings most important race will broach the subject of non-cycling followers.
Much to the delight of Amaury Sports Organization (ASO), PMU, Brandt and Antargaz have followed the lead of fellow race sponsors Skoda and Sagem and decided to extend their partnerships with the event.
Continued support from existing sponsors along with the addition of new sponsors like Vittel and Ricoré could be an indication that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
It is clear that the ASO is willing to take whatever steps are necessary to try to run a scandal free event. The non-invitation of last years overall winner Alberto Contador, and the exclusion of Tom Boonen winner of the Green Jersey in 2007 is absolute proof of that. The ASO has sent a strong message to the peloton that keeping your image clean is now a requirement to take part in the sports biggest race.