Friday, July 28, 2006

Did America's Tour de France Winner Cheat?

I am just sick about this. After riding one of the great Tour de France efforts, and coming home wearing the Yellow Jersey, Tour winner Floyd Landis has been accused of cheating. The International Cycling Union has notified Landis and his team, Phonak, that he tested positive for abnormally high levels of testosterone. Team Phonak has suspended Landis.

Landis says he doesn't know why he tested high for testosterone, and denied any cheating. He has requested that his backup sample be tested. If the backup sample also tests positive, then Phonak has said they would terminate Landis' contract, and his Tour win would be taken from him. The second place winner, Oscar Pereiro, would be declared the winner.

Personally, I don't think Floyd Landis took any steriods, or cheated in any way. But I can understand why someone might think otherwise. The sad part is even if Landis is able to clear his name, there will always be some who believe he is guilty. Just look at all the accusations directed at Lance Armstrong, who has never tested positive for a banned substance. For now, all we can do is wait for the results of the second test.

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