Tokyo - Ivan Basso returned from a doping ban by coming third in the Japan Cup race which saw an Italian podium sweep led by Damiano Cunego.

Basso, 30, started the deciding attack of the 151-kilometres race, with Cunego then first over the line in Utsunomiya and Giovanni Visconti second ahead of Basso.

Basso was banned for 16 months in connection with the doping affair around Spanish doctor Eufemiano Fuentes. He admitted to have sent blood to Fuentes with the intention of doping, but said he was clean now.

The 2006 Giro d'Italia winner is now with the Liquigas team and hopes to win the famous Italian race again next year. dpa