McEwen wore yellow in the Tour Down Under

But it was his Giro wins which suggested that at Lotto, the Australian had finally found a team that could harness his talents.

On Sunday, McEwen became only the third rider to win the Tour's final Parisian stage more than once.

His first triumph back in 1999 for the Dutch Rabobank team was followed by two leaner years and a nomadic existence as he exchanged teams and fell out with management.

Despite his 2002 successes he is likely to be on his way again in 2003, since Lotto is set to merge with Belgian rivals Domo - the team McEwen left acrimoniously at the end of last season.

But there will be no shortage of takers for a very rare sprinter, a man who does not seem to need the dedicated support of a team to lead him out in the fast finishes.

Usually, the top men are protected as they fight for position.

But McEwen spent the Tour and the Giro ducking and diving, and using his rivals for shelter before forcing himself through to the line.

That such a small man could manage such feats reflects his background as a BMX rider, where daredevil exploits and top class bike-handling are essential.

And, while McEwen is now 30, there should be more to come.

Cipollini and Zabel have proved that you can win well into your thirties.

And, if McEwen can find another team where he feels equally at home, he will surely follow suit.