McQuaid: UCI will not shy away from sanctioning Armstrong

UCI President Pat McQuaid insists that cycling's governing body will have no problem in ratifying the US Anti-Doping Agency's decision to strip Lance Armstrong of his seven Tour de France titles.

The UCI has previously refused to comment on the USADA's ruling until the anti-doping agency has provided a 'reasoned decision' in 'explaining the action taken'.

However, speaking to journalists at the London Paralympic Games this afternoon, McQuaid stated that Armstrong will be punished should USADA justify the reasons behind their ruling.

"If ultimately the UCI has to sanction, we will have no problems. We've sanctioned many good riders in the past, we've put them out of the sport and we're not afraid to do it with anybody," he said.

"It's a great pity. There are so many positive things happening, the whole Olympic Games was great for cycling, not just in Britain but around the World, and it was noticed over the world. These Paralympics are the same."

McQuaid admitted that the UCI has not heard from USADA in the past few days, adding:"They've sent us a letter saying they will send us a reasoned decision, so we will wait for that."

When asked when that was, he replied: "I think about a week ago, I'm not sure exactly when....soon after they announced the sanctions."

All of Armstrong's results from August 1, 1998 were also annulled after he decided not to contest the charges against him, which he described as 'heinous'.

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