During the race the other day, French reporters tried to break into his hotel room looking for any proof of their claims of him doping.
I'd say that counts as not too much respect.
(edit: I didn't see you mentioned that at the top of your post...sorry
)
And it's a little early to say he is "on his way" to another win, but since this is the time he usually kills everyone and takes a big lead, I think it could very well be true.
Go Lance!