July 25/07 1:36 am - UCI Press Release Regarding Vinokourov

Posted by Editoress on 07/25/07
 

Update on testing at the Tour de France
Courtesy UCI

The UCI confirmed today that an adverse analytical finding for Alexandre Vinokourov was reported by the WADA accredited laboratory in Paris yesterday.

Under normal circumstances, the UCI does not comment on individual cases during the results management process. “However, now that the party concerned has made public statements, it is now appropriate to clarify the situation” said UCI President, Mr Pat McQuaid.

A blood sample collected from Mr Vinokourov after the time trial on Sunday 22nd July indicated the use of the prohibited method of homologous blood transfusion. Mr Vinokourov has requested the analysis of his B sample which will be completed this week.

If the analysis of the B sample confirms the result of A sample, disciplinary proceedings will be initiated according to the rules of the UCI anti-doping regulations and the World Anti-Doping Code.

Whereas the question of the culpability of Mr Vinokourov will be answered by the competent disciplinary bodies, the UCI realizes that the mere fact of an adverse analytical finding is detrimental to the image of cycling and of the race where the finding occurred, in this case the Tour de France. More than the financial cost, this is the painful price for UCI's intensive anti-doping fight. Race organiser, ASO has to be congratulated for its financial and moral support in the fight against doping.

This year, the UCI's anti-doping measures were intensified before and during the Tour de France. Over 180 out-of-competition tests were conducted on riders in the weeks leading up to the start of the Tour. In addition, testing being conducted during the Tour includes approximately 400 pre-stage blood screens, 140 post-stage urine controls and 40 post-race blood controls. The most sophisticated analytical techniques are being used by the Paris laboratory, including tests for a range of blood manipulation techniques.