French anti-doping authorities have reportedly now opened a preliminary investigation into alleged cases of Tour de France doping by members of team Arkea-Samsic.
Several reports recently ran by members of the French media alluded to two persons apparently closely involved with the squad currently being detained for questioning. The two riders in custody for questioning have in the meantime been part-identified as a former Giro d’Italia champion and a Vuelta a Espana champion. Cycling body the UCI has now confirmed that it has been in contact with OCLAESP, which is a special public health unit set to work alongside the investigation currently underway by French judicial authorities.
Arkea-Samsic team manager Emmanuel Hubert has in response to a wave of questions following the going public of the existence of the investigation said that the raid involved only a few riders and their immediate entourage – members of entourage apparently not employed by the cycling team. He did however add that even though the team fully supported its individual riders, it had no intention of tolerating any doping practices and will, if necessary, take the necessary measures needed to sever all links with parties found to have been guilty as charged.
Marseille prosecutor Dominique Laurens was earlier this week quoted by members of the French press as having confirmed the discovery of several “health products”, which products reportedly included medicine stashed away in personal belongings. Of primary concern was reportedly the discovery of a “method” that could potentially qualify as being somehow connected to doping.
| # | Site | Bonus | Bet | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Betway |  | 5/5 | Up to $60 NZD | Bet now Review |
| 2 |  | Picklebet | | 4.9/5 | Login to see promotions | Bet now Review |
| 3 |  | Palmerbet | | 4.8/5 | 100% Match | Bet now Review |
More About Gary Hicks
When it comes to knowing what’s going on, on the track, field or any other sporting arena, Gary Hicks is your man. With an almost unrivalled passion for journalism, sports and betting Gary decided to combine his love of all 3 and share his expertise with the world.
In the last few years Gary has risen through the ranks and prides himself on always keeping a finger on the pulse of what’s hot and happening in the sports betting world. Gary is the resident news expert at OnlineBettingNZ.co.nz and his articles make for invaluable fodder for any avid punter.
You May Also Like:
Cycling New Zealand To Face More High Profile Resignations
Cycling New Zealand has announced that another two of its senior staff will be resigning soon in the midst of an inquiry after the death of cyclist Olivia Podmore. It’s ….
NZ Cycling Bosses Say About Inquiry And NDAs
New Zealand cycling chiefs are saying the inquiry into the sport following the death of Olivia Podmore will be handled in such a way that it’s fair and open to ….
Tour de France Mystery Fan Finally Behind Bars
Following the massive crash that saw the Tour de France making headlines for all the wrong reasons, French law enforcement officials have finally tracked down the sign wielding bandit. After ….
NZ Cyclist Fisher-Black Crowdfunds to Save Career
A champion cyclist from New Zealand, Niamh Fisher-Black, has been forced to turn to crowdfunding to save her professional career after she fled from the Italian red zone. 2020 was ….
New Zealand Win Gold in Cambridge
The New Zealand’s women’s pursuit team almost broke a world record, as they took gold at the UCI Track Cycling World Cup that was held in Cambridge. They were able ….