That is correct, we bring you reading pleasure for lunch. Top amongst the news, the Tour, clean through Paris, has finally been dealt its first doping casualty.

Mikel Astarloza, the Spaniard who  and won the race’s 16th stage, was provisionally suspended after his “A” sample tested positive. Should his “B” sample also test positive, the Euskaltel man will be suspended for two years.

What is perhaps most sad about Astarloza’s positive test is that it shocks no one. It was really more surprising, I think we can all agree, that the Tour itself went off without at least one or two dopers getting popped. Sadly, while Astarloza is the first, it’s hard to believe he’ll be the last.

A bit of news equally as unsurprising: Alberto Contador officially turns down Astana’s offer to extend his contract. What’s more, he’s looking for a way out of the final year of his current deal, which would effectively finish tearing up what was likely one of the most talented Tour teams ever assembled.

I know, I’m absolutely shocked, too.