Evans is an outspoken supporter of a free Tibet and its expected the Tour de France runner-up  will express his opinions to the media during the Olympics.

 

Coates told Australian Associated Press that he had spoken with Evans about the subject. Coates said: "My understanding is he's certainly said that he would respect those rules when he's in the venues and I hope that's the case," Mr Coates said in Beijing. "Our position is that we respect the right of athletes to take a position on human rights, all those matters. We've given them the opportunity personally on blogs; personally at conferences like this you're free to ask these athletes whatever questions you want here."

 

Speaking with the media at Beijing airport, reporters asked Evans if the Australian Olympic Committee had spoken to him about his thoughts on the Tibet issue and, more pertinently, how he intended to broach them while in China?

Evans said: "Not personally but I'm here to ride my race and play my role as part of the Australian Olympic team, not to upset anyone. But of course, yes, I have my opinions."

Asked when it might be appropriate to express those beliefs during his stay in Beijing? Evans answered: "Umm, probably when I leave."

Australian cycling team's media attache ended the short press conference after Evans answered the question.

During a press conference at this years Tour de France Evans said: "Trying to bring awareness of the Tibet movement is something someone in my position can do."

Cadel Evans has a link on his personal website, cadel.com.au that takes people to a site where they can buy pro-Tibet t-shirts (picture). Evans also approved an image of him wearing his custom-made "Free Tibet" undershirts while racing before it was published on the cover of the Australian edition of the official Tour de France guide. Cadel end his wife, Chiara Passerini, also sponsor a Tibetan child.