By Cycling Weekly
published

Swiss bike manufacturer BMC has announced today that it has withdrawn its sponsorship of the Astana team.

BMC supplied all of Astana's bikes, and were due to continue sponsorship until the end of the 2007 season. However, as a result of Alexandre Vinokourov's positive test result for blood doping during the Tour de France, the company have terminated the contract with immediate effect.

The company have so far not enjoyed a great association with professional cycling, having also been the bike supplier to the defunct Phonak squad. Last year's Tour winner Floyd Landis - the leader of the Phonak squad - tested positive for testosterone during that event. Phonak disbanded at the end of 2006 after the squad's main sponsor pulled the plug.

BMC have stated that they are reviewing their commitment to supply machines to a ProTour team, although sponsorship of other cycling disciplines will continue unaffected.

BMC: www.bmc-racing.com.

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

Cycling Weekly

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.

Latest