Landis: I am still the champion
2006-09-17 16:05
Madrid - American Floyd Landis has
maintained he is still the true Tour de France champion and
again denied knowingly taking banned substances.
During a visit to Spain Landis, who tested positive for the
male sex hormone testosterone after the 17th stage of the Tour
de France, told the Spanish sports daily Marca that he was
innocent.
"I have nothing to hide and nothing to regret. I'm innocent
and I think my lawyers will be able to show that." Landis said.
"The anti-doping control in the Tour is full of
inconsistencies."
The case has been referred to the US Anti-Doping Agency by
the US Cycling Union at the start of a long legal process
which could lead to Landis losing his Tour de France title.
Landis said he had gone to Madrid to talk to his lawyers
about his case. He was sacked by his team Phonak following
confirmation of the positive test.
The American visited the start of the Tour of Spain in
Madrid on Sunday morning and a number of different team buses
at the finish.
"I've come to talk with my lawyers and to say goodbye to my
teammates and staff on Phonak, because after the Tour I almost
had no time," he said.
- Reuters