February 15, 2007

What is your goal for the Tour of California?

FC: Training. I want to do miles and spend more hours on the bike. My condition is surely not the best, and I won’t go to the limit at all times to show some results. I will be here to help the team as much as I can, but it’s not the World Championships or a ProTour race – though I hope it will become one! They have the wide roads, good organizing and the people on the road – more than in some European races!

What does the prolog in the World Championships jersey mean to you?

FC: This is very special, to start the season in the rainbow colors. I will try to do my best in the prolog, but the finish is hard and I don’t have my full power yet.

(the next two were asked by Velonews)

What are some of the races you target this year? 

FC: Every time trial I will be able to wear the rainbow jersey, so that is special. The Tour de France prolog in London would be great.

If you could win race this year, what would it be?

FC: The World Championship road race title.

You grew up in Switzerland, where everyone rides their bike. How was it to train here?

FC: It is very different. We got the one finger salute a few times. The roads are so much bigger here than in Switzerland, so I frankly don’t understand it. Scenic-wise, the area here is really beautiful for bike riding.

What is safer, riding in the group or by yourself?

FC: Oh, it’s always easier to ride by myself. I don’t have any problems then. With the group it is a bit harder.

Good luck for the race!

FC: Thank you.