Italian Vincenzo Nibali says that his impending victory in the Tour de France is proof that clean riders can win without the use of banned substances.
With just one stage left and him more than seven minutes ahead of his closest pursuer, Nibali says he would have to thank doping controllers because of their contributions to his success.
Speaking to AFP, Nibali said: "Steps have been taken and great progress has been made and with it so my results have arrived.I have to thank them (doping controllers) because without these iron controls maybe I wouldn't be here today."
The sport is still recovering from the Lance Armstrong controversy, but it could well on be its way to recovery with the 29-year-old as its best rider.
As he takes his place in the event's roster of winners, Nibali acknowledged that he still has a lot to accomplish to be mentioned with the likes of other Italian greats.
"I've taken my place in the history of the Tour and that's very important but those others also made their names in other great races, such as the Classics," he said. He added: "I never thought about making history, I just concentrated on trying to win the Tour, like I won the Giro and the Vuelta, because I'm a stage racer.
Nibali has won four stages thus far, building a huge lead in the process. Barring any major accident, he is on his way to the Tour championship. "I'm used to the emotions, it's not my first Tour nor my first win in a Grand Tour.But there have been a lot of emotions and victories, such as the one in Sheffield although I think the best one will be on Sunday."
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