“When it rains, it pours” and with the latest allegations against Contador, it seems the Spaniard is getting soaked. Barely a week after clarifying his positive test result to the banned substance ‘Clenbuterol’ Contador now has to explain how plasticisers have been detected in his urine samples.

In brief, plasticisers are trace elements found in urine, when ones blood has been stored in plastic bags, such as the ones used in hospitals, and on drips. In the world of doping, this is a direct indicator of a blood transfusion. Contador has denied taking part in any doping programs, as well as any blood transfusions, saying “I’ve done nothing illegal”.

As is the case with any doping allegations, riders are rightfully treated as innocent until speculation can be backed up with solid evidence. In Alberto Contador’s case, the required evidence is slowly building up. In the interests of professional cycling, and more importantly the overall appeal of cycling worldwide, one would hope Contador wades through the allegations, emerging with a clean slate and his signature smile. Whether this happens or not – we’ll have to wait and see.

Throughout the past weeks, UCI President Pat McQuaid has been unavailable for comment on the situation, and was barely seen at the recent 2010 Cycling World Championships in Geelong. As much as the public are tired of reading about doping allegations, it’s a reasonable assumption that McQuaid and the UCI as an entity are tired of dealing with allegations, hearings and rider discipline. With extensive bans in place for riders who bend WADA regulations, it was hoped riders would heed on the side of caution, and avoid doping altogether. But is seems the potential for success is enough to lure the riders in.

Frankly, we will never understand the complexities of being a professional cyclist. The immense pressure to perform. The years spent chasing a dream, as well as time and money. When you break it down into simple examples, it becomes easier to understand why one would be tempted to dope. To think that a rider could have endured:

1,000 hours or more, training each year.

35,000km or more, training each year.

Crashes. Again and again. And again.

Time away from family.

And only then do they break into the pro ranks, and start all over again working their way to the top. Whether or not they keep their job as a rider, depends mainly on their performances throughout the year. And so the temptation presents itself.

In no way is doping acceptable, nor worth reasoning – but when it comes to pointing fingers, it’s only fair to take into account all the little things, before lashing out at the very riders we idolise. The very riders we expect to perform. Over the coming days, Alberto Contador will have a lot to deal with, as will the UCI and World Anti Doping Authority. Until a decision is reached, we can only hope for the best.

More information on Contador's Plasticiser story can be found here:

David Walsh Input can be found here:

Greg LeMond Reaction can be found here: