Four-time world time trial champ, Tony Martin admitted that so far, Froome is not getting any special treatment following his drug test results. However, Martin added that he feels “angry” for the fact that so far, Froome is not suspended while the investigation is currently being applied.
Chris Froome, four-time Tour de France winner, had twice the allowed amount of an asthma drug in his urine. He underwent the test on September during Vuelta a Espana. He ended the Grand Tour taking home the first place.
German rider, Martin, says that Froome’s case was a real “scandal” in the cycling world. However, he also understands the rules that the cycling’s world governing body have over such test results.
“According to the rules, in a case involving a specified substance, every athlete shall have the chance to explain whether the numbers can be due to natural causes,” Martin said on his Facebook page.
“I will, as I always did, continue to take a strong position regarding the fight against doping. I will always remain an outspoken advocate for a 100% clean sport.”
Simply following the protocol?
On the other hand, Froome denies any fault adding that he was just “following the protocol” after his team’s doctor advised him to only take the allowed amount of the drug. Yesterday, when speaking for the Sports Personality of the Year programme, Froome, 32, said that he “understood people’s concerns”. He also added that he had “never taken more” of the asthma drug “than I am allowed”.
Apparently, the Movement for Credible Cycling (MPCC), also known to be a voluntary anti-doping union which involves seven of the 18 World Tour pro teams, has asked Team Sky to suspend Chris Froome.
“Without making any assumption towards the final decision, Team Sky should suspend Chris Froome on a voluntary basis. Until the end of the procedure. This measure would allow the rider and its team to focus on their defense with serenity. But also to avoid tension among many managers and riders,” a statement it released on Monday, said.
