Levi's not blue: Utah's Leipheimer relaxing after big cycling season

DEER VALLEY — As Levi Leipheimer enjoyed his blue cheese crusted tenderloin of beef and chocolate mousse cake at the Chateaux's bistro high on the mountain at Deer Valley, he commented on how nice it is to not have to worry quite as much about what he puts into his body.

"It's the offseason," he explained. "That means I can eat this and not feel guilty."

That's quite the contrast to his diet and attitude for most of the year. As one of the world's best cyclists, Leipheimer is acutely aware of virtually everything he eats, everything he does and every bit of exercise he undertakes.

He's also gleefully allowing himself some digestive indiscretions while he celebrates his best year as a professional cyclist.

The Discovery Channel cyclist (at least until the team disbands and his contract expires at the end of the year) won the Tour of California, placed on the podium at the Tour de France and won the U.S.

Professional Cycling road race a month ago. He captured time-trial victories in stage races across the globe and set the cycling world on fire with what has been described by many as the best Tour de France time trial in history.

Now, he's pondering the future of the sport and where it will take him.

"I'm not really a free agent," Leipheimer said when asked what life is like not having a team. "We just can't say anything yet, but I'm not really on the market anymore."

Leipheimer said he and his new cycling team were not quite prepared to make an announcement, but the Deseret Morning News has learned the Rowland Hall graduate will join Astana, along with former Discovery Channel director Johan Bruyneel and a few other Discovery cyclists such as Tour de France winner Alberto Contador for the next cycling season.

"They just need to make sure everything is just right before they make it official," said Dr. Massimo (Max) Testa, who has worked with Leipheimer as a coach and doctor for several years.

A move to Astana would surprise many. The team was in the middle of a handful of doping scandals this year with team leader Alexander Vinokourov being kicked out of the Tour de France after a positive result in a blood-doping test.