Belgian sprinter Tom Boonen will not face trial for failing a doping test for cocaine, as the criminal charges against him have been dropped.
The Quick Step rider failed an out-of-competition test for the banned substance in May 2008. He was subsequently barred from riding the Tour de France. Boonen, a massive star in Belgium, was also subjected to public scrutiny and ridicule after the failed test.
A court in Turnhout, Belgium, today (Tuesday) ruled that Boonen had 'suffered enough', and no benefit would be gained by pursuing the charge. Boonen himself was not present in the courtroom as he is currently riding in the Tour of Qatar.
Boonen has never publicly denied or confirmed that he took cocaine.
RELATED LINKS
Boonen could face prosecution for cocaine use
Cocaine positive may not spell disaster for Boonen
Boonen excluded from Tour de France by organiser
Boonen admits he's not positive after cocaine positive
Boonen gets first win since cocaine positive
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