Bruyneel and RadioShack-Nissan separate following USADA findings

Johan Bruyneel today parted company with RadioShack-Nissan as the fall-out from USADA's investigation into Lance Armstrong continues.

Bruyneel, who has managed the team since its formation for the 2010 season, was heavily incriminated in USADA's Reasoned Decision that was published on Wednesday. The Belgian was cited 129 times in the organisation's 200-page report.

The separation was confirmed by the team in press statement this evening, which read: "The Reasoned Decision published by the USADA included a number of testimonies as a result of their investigation. In light of these testimonies, both parties feel it is necessary to make this decision since Johan Bruyneel can no longer direct the team in an efficient and comfortable way. His departure is desirable to ensure the serenity and cohesiveness within the Team."

He is also facing charges brought forward by USADA in relation to his role in the US Postal team and its extensive doping practices, an allegation that he denies. An arbitration hearing is scheduled to take place later this year, with the possibility of a lifetime ban being handed down if Bruyneel is found guilty.

The news may go some way to appeasing Fabian Cancellara, who expressed doubts to Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws about working with Bruyneel in the future.  

External link

Full PDF of USADA's 'reasoned decision' plus links to supporting evidence

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