Thu 12/06/08 12:20 - Former cycling world champion Tom Boonen, under investigation for suspected cocaine possession, has been barred from competing in the Tour de France. This has been announced officially by race director Christian Prudhomme.
The Belgian, who won the green jersey for the best sprinter of the Tour last year, is being investigated after traces of the drug were found in a urine sample taken last month.
"Boonen will not be welcome," Prudhomme has told press agencies. Quick Step manager Patrick Lefevere said his team would continue to back Boonen. He is trying to get his top cyclist into the Tour after all.
(Belga) Wednesday's decision to bar Tom Boonen from competition in the Tour de France means that two of the top contenders are out of the prestigious race. Apart from Tom Boonen, last year's tour winner Alberto Contador will also not be present.
The drug accusations against Boonen are an attack on the integrity of the image of the Tour de France according to race director Prudhomme (photo).
"Clearly, this affair hits the integrity of the Tour de France and the integrity of the riders participating in the race. The link has been made with the Tour."
Belgian prosecutors opened an investigation Tuesday into suspected cocaine use and possession.
(Belga) House searches did not turn up evidence against Tom Boonen, who many say is one of cycling's most gifted sprinters. But, because he tested positive in an out-of-competition check he could face prosecution in Belgium for drug use.
Boonen faces a spell in prison if found guilty but does not risk sanctions from the International Cycling Union as positive cocaine tests out-of-competition do not carry a penalty.
