Rewind seven months and Michael Rogers’ world had come crashing down around him.
A provisional suspension from racing due to an adverse analytical finding for clenbuterol put his career on hold – but having been cleared of any wrongdoing, the Australian has seized his second chance with both hands.
Already known as a hugely talented domestique, having rode in the service of Sir Bradley Wiggins during his 2012 Tour de France win before switching to the ranks of Alberto Contador, Rogers is now a multiple Grand Tour stage winner to boot.
His well-timed solo attack to win the first Giro d’Italia stage of his career back in May was effectively a mini time trial, with the three-time former world TT champion showcasing his ability against the clock. Stage 20, meanwhile, saw Rogers display immeasurable grit and determination on Monte Zoncolan as the break was gradually thinned to just one man before the summit.
And his victory on stage 16 of the Tour de France was arguably the best of the lot – his cool head keeping him in the front group, barely wavering from his steady rhythm as he matched each attack without panic. He followed it with a descending masterclass before defying the numerical advantage Team Europcar held to solo to the stage win.
Rogers has readily admitted his suspension has made him more determined to take advantage of the opportunities afforded him. Cool, calculated, tactically astute and now fiercely determined – Rogers is now a major contender for stage wins.
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