Cycling: Chris Froome (Sky) was acquitted by the UCI, the world cycling association, on Monday. Allegedly, the Brit was able to prove that the conspicuous test due to the excessively high salbutamol value at the Vuelta a Espana was not the result of unauthorized use.
UCI and WADA find no unauthorized use
It's a decision that will once again divide the cycling world and make cycling in general look bad in the eyes of the public. Chris Froome - four-time Tour de France winner, winner of the Vuelta a Espana and Giro d'Italia - was acquitted today. The Brit made a conspicuous test at the Tour of Spain in September last year. His salbutamol level was twice the legal limit. In the past few months, the UCI has not made a decision as they waited for Chris Froome to defend and eventually had to agree. Without further explanation from officials, it is now said that the accused has been acquitted of all charges. Having examined all relevant evidence in detail, the UCI and WADA have come to the conclusion that the increased value was not the result of unauthorized use.
Chris Froome: "I'm very happy"
In view of the fact that only yesterday the tour organization ASO excluded Chris Froome from the Tour of France, today's announcement seems like a spectacle. By removing Chris Froome from the start list, the ASO put the gun on the chest of the UCI. The World Cycling Federation responded today with the acquittal. Of course, Chris Froome is delighted.
Chris Froome:
“I am very happy that the UCI acquitted me. The decision is a big deal for me and the team, but also an important moment for cycling.”
Grateful and relieved to finally put this chapter behind me, it has been an emotional 9 months. Thank you to all of those who have supported and believed in me throughout. pic.twitter.com/OGzsg83Gjj
- Chris Froome (@chrisfroome) July 2, 2018