According to an article I have just read on the CBC website, 20 riders in this years Tour de France have been warned about their slightly abnormal hematocrit levels.

No suspensions will be handed out however as the levels were not above the legal limit.

The tests were carried out on July 5 in Brest before the first stage of the three-week race, said Philippe Sagot, deputy secretary-general of the agency.

“Around 20 riders have results a little high, right on the limit,” Sagot told the Associated Press. He did not identify the riders involved.

“There are no infractions, but some figures are very close to the limit, particularly as regards the level of hematocrit,” Sagot said.

The riders will be warned and told to check with their doctors because the levels could prove to be a health risk. This will raise a few eyebrows but because they are under the limit nobody will say to much. Still, it is great to know the sport is staying on top of this and keeping an eye on things.

Category: Pro Road Racing » Doping, Tour de France |

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