Bardiani-CSF rejoins anti-doping group on 'probationary basis' after three positive tests
MPCC says it would never refuse applications to join anti-doping group
Bardiani-CSF have rejoined the MPCC (Movement for a Credible Cycling) anti-doping group on a "probationary basis" despite three of their riders having delivered positive tests in the last 12 months.
The Italian team were previously members of the group, which supports additional, more stringent anti-doping measures, but left in 2015 after breaking the group's rules by reportedly not withdrawing a rider from the Giro d'Italia after he showed abnormally low levels of cortisol.
>>> Chris Froome should be 'voluntarily suspended' by Team Sky, says anti-doping group
"Bardiani-CSF has decided to adhere in 2018 to association MPCC," a team statement read. "The decision taken by Bruno and Roberto Reverberi, general and team manager of Bardiani-CSF, arises from the will to strengthen more and more the internal policy on anti-doping and transparency.
"The decision of Bardiani-CSF is based on the sharing of values and purposes promoted by MPCC to have a more and more clean cycling, a relevant and prevailing factor over the contrasts emerged in the past. Of course, the team has accepted and immediately adopted the Association’s rules and relative obligations."
Watch: Top 10 unforgettable moments from 2017
Three Bardiani-CSF failed doping tests during the 2017 season. Nicola Ruffoni and Stefano Pirazzi both received four-year bans after testing positive for a form of human growth hormone ahead of the Giro d'Italia, while Michael Bresciani was banned for two months after testing positive for a banned diuretic, a result that he blamed on his food being contaminated by his mother's medication.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
In a statement issued to welcome the Italian team back into its fold, the MPCC said that it would never refuse applications for team to join.
>>> Race organisers reveal wildcard team selection for 2018 Tour de France
"On 27 December, the MPCC’s board of directors validated their membership on probation. The purpose of the movement is not to refuse teams applications.
"We will always be pleased when a team wants to commit to rules that are stricter than international authorities. In return, the MPCC demands an uncompromising respect for the regulation of the movement before considering full membership."
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
Henry Robertshaw began his time at Cycling Weekly working with the tech team, writing reviews, buying guides and appearing in videos advising on how to dress for the seasons. He later moved over to the news team, where his work focused on the professional peloton as well as legislation and provision for cycling. He's since moved his career in a new direction, with a role at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
-
‘I am in love with Unbound Gravel’ - new documentary celebrates three unsung and behind-the-scenes heroes of race
Shimano's new documentary 'Unsung' shares the stories of three "behind-the-scenes" people who make Unbound Gravel happen each year: a sports photographer, a bike mechanic, and an event organizer.
By Kristin Jenny Published
-
'One of the boys thinks I’ll be walking about in armour': Mark Cavendish knighted in ceremony at Windsor Castle
Manxman says he was “nervous” after being made a Knight Commander by Prince William
By Tom Thewlis Published
-
Irish Continental level professional cyclist suspended after EPO positive
Jesse Ewart, who rode for Terengganu Cycling, has been banned until 2027
By Adam Becket Published
-
Convicted EPO doper Jarlinson Pantano returns to cycling with Colombian EPM team
Former Trek-Segafredo and IAM Cycling rider rejoins peloton after his four-year band expires
By Adam Becket Published
-
American cyclist Jackson ’Huntley’ Nash handed lifetime ban after doping violations
USADA hand down penalty after multiple offences discovered by investigation
By Adam Becket Published
-
Guillaume Martin: The big question is this grey area of ketones
The Frenchman says he is in favour of banning ketones for reasons of fairness
By Jonny Long Published
-
Julian Alaphilippe doesn't share Arnaud Démare's concerns over performance products used in the peloton
The Frenchman also says he 'won't be shouting from the rooftops' when he eventually decides to compete for the Tour de France yellow jersey
By Jonny Long Published
-
US amateur rider handed four-year doping ban after winning cat three race
The 49-year-old was tested after his win in the Arizona State Championships this summer
By Alex Ballinger Published
-
David Lappartient: Riders are sharing rumours of new doping techniques, they feel there is a gap
"Man is limitless in the imagination to cheat," the UCI President said
By Jonny Long Published
-
UK Anti-Doping's case against Richard Freeman paused after doping doctor appeals tribunal verdict
UKAD will resume proceedings against Richard Freeman after his High Court appeal
By Jonny Long Published