Jan Ullrich beams with happiness after his return from dark place: "Now I'm back where I feel comfortable - in cycling"

Jan Ullrich was one of the most iconic riders around the turn of millenium, winning 1997 Tour de France, a World time trial champion twice in 1999 and 2001 and Olympic gold medallist in Sydney. But after his career, he was remembered more as a leading figure of the 'Dark era of cycling' along with rival Lance Armstrong.

For years, the German was in a dark place. But in recent years he underwent tough rehab to regain his place in cycling community. Now he's back as a cycling persona, expert and even festival organiser. Life is great again. "I actually didn't expect anything," he said of his comeback in an interview with Bild.

"Of course, I had great hope that people would understand me. And hand on heart: I can't remember any negative feedback. That it turned out this way, that I was given another chance - that's wonderful. Above all, that I have my identity back. I had lost that for many, many years. Now I'm back where I feel comfortable - in cycling."

A key figure on his path back was former rival Lance Armstrong. "I was stuck in self-pity for many years. He's a completely different type of guy," Ullrich said in an interview about his special friendship with the American. Unlike Ullrich, Armstrong was completely banished by the world of cycling, but he still continues to hold a protective hand over those in need.

"Lance charges forward, he's very disciplined in his life, he has a structure. But the most important thing is that I have the feeling: There's someone there who really likes me as a friend. Who says to me: I enjoy being with you, I'll help you if you need anything. That's a gift."

The surname Ullrich could soon return to professional roads. The 51-year-old's sons Benno (14) and Toni (12) could break onto the European junior scene in a few years - if they choose to follow the career path of their father.

"Of course, they have a big name, which can have advantages and disadvantages," he said of the Ullrich surname. "But they must and want to find their own path. And we as parents should support them in this - and not push them towards something else. Personally, I think a career in sports is a good one. At the moment, they're having a lot of fun with cycling, but also with soccer and skiing. As a dad, I'll keep a low profile."