Team Sky cyclist Chris Froome failed a drugs test during his victory at this year's Vuelta a Espana in September.
Froome, who has had asthma since childhood, had an excessive amount of the asthma drug Salbutamol in his system. 1000ng/ml are allowed under WADA rules - Froome had twice that in the urine sample taken.
The sample from which the 32-year-old tested positive was collected on September 7th, he was notified of the result on September 20th. An analysis of Froome's B sample confirmed the A sample test.
Anticipating a UCI statement and a Guardian story breaking news of the positive test, Froome said:
It is well known that I have asthma and I know exactly what the rules are. I use an inhaler to manage my symptoms (always within the permissible limits) and I know for sure that I will be tested every day I wear the race leader's jersey.
My asthma got worse at the Vuelta so I followed the team doctor's advice to increase my Salbutamol dosage. As always, I took the greatest care to ensure that I did not use more than the permissible dose.
I take my leadership position in my sport very seriously. The UCI is absolutely right to examine test results and, together with the team, I will provide whatever information it requires.
The UCI say that Froome has not been been suspended because of the failed test. Though, the result may yet result in him losing his Vuelta title.
This year, Froome won his fourth Tour de France title along with becoming the first British rider to win the Vuelta.
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