When are professional cyclists ever going to just go out and race? Just when we thought the Tour de France was finally going to get a clean run, 17 teams refuse to sign up to next year's UCI series.

I have been enjoying the racing this year and was praying no controversy would spoil the event, as it has for the last decade or more. Fat chance. If it isn't drug cheats, it's something else.
Keith Fraser, Bearsden

Ronaldinho can join Ronaldo on AC Milan scrapheap

I must say that I am glad to read that Ronaldinho is not coming to the UK after his proposed deal with Manchester City fell through.

It is extremely sad to see a player of his undoubted ability, a player who could have been the best the world has ever seen, let himself go so badly to the point where is he is now just a gimmick.

What is it about Brazilian players that sees their form plummet so drastically?

AC Milan seems the perfect place for the Brazilian. He can join his countryman and fellow former world player of the year, Ronaldo, on the scrapheap there.
Graham Young, via email

Who is footing the bill for Chambers' Olympic appeal

Dwain Chambers is reported to owe £100,000 for money won when he was taking drugs. Who is paying the court costs for his appeal? It must at least double the money he already owes. Is he getting legal aid and the taxpayer left to foot the bill for a drug cheat?
Charlie Halliday, via email

Open coverage gets you in the swing for Birkdale

The Herald Sport did a great job on the golf coverage today (Midweek sport, July 16). It was thoroughly enjoyable to read all the articles and it has really got me in the mood for the Open.

I still don't know who to back this year, though. Lee Westwood has been tipped to finally come good, but I really cannot see it. I think Sergio Garcia really is the one to watch, although I would love to see Graeme McDowell follow up on his Scottish Open success.
Kevin Ross, via email

Signs are not good for Harrington's Open defence

It doesn't look good for Padraig Harrington. What a shame it would be if the Open champion could not defend his crown this weekend.
S Creith, via email