Considering that at least two riders in this team have admitted to using
illegal performance enhancing drugs this year (Philippe Gaumont, now
retired, and David Millar, still a showpony), why haven't the team been
banned from competing in this years Tour?
This occurs after a former Kelme rider, Jesus Manzano went public on the
alledged drug practices of the Kelme team during his career. The key word
here is ALLEDGED (correct spelling?) because this has never been proven,
whilst the Cofidis team have now been under investigation for the whole
season and the two riders above have admitted to using drugs in their
career?
The obvious answer is of course is that the sponsor in French ... now
banning the team from the tour would hurt Australia's prospects in the tour
as Stuart O'Grady and Matthew White (both new to the team this year) are due
to ride the race, but if fairness is observed, Cofidis, like the Kelme team
this year, and like teams in previous seasons such as Lampre with Raimundas
Rumsas and Vini Caldirola? with Stefano Garzelli?, should be stopped from
riding this race by the tour organisers ...
I guess some bull&^%* excuse will be made ...