ASTANA KICKED OUT OF TOUR

Astana leave team hotel Tour de France 2007

The Astana team left the Tour de France in disgrace today after their leader, Alexandre Vinokourov tested positive for an homologous blood transfusion.

Vinokourov tested positive after the 54km time trial in Albi on Saturday, the stage he won by over a minute from Cadel Evans. His Astana team mates Andreas Klöden and Andrey Kashechkin finished third and fourth on the stage, raising many eyebrows.

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Founded in 1891, Cycling Weekly and its team of expert journalists brings cyclists in-depth reviews, extensive coverage of both professional and domestic racing, as well as fitness advice and 'brew a cuppa and put your feet up' features. Cycling Weekly serves its audience across a range of platforms, from good old-fashioned print to online journalism, and video.