Armstrong will be tried for doping and could lose the seven tours

The United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has made the decision – unanimously – to file doping charges against Lance Armstrong and his former director Johan Bruynell, so the Texan could lose his seven victories in the Tour de France, in addition to his individual triumphs.

The trial, which could be held between next November and December, is based on the decision of three members of the Anti-Doping Review Board (ADRB), who recommend continuing with the process, despite the innocence displayed by the former Texan cyclist, who denies any relationship with doping.

“USADA confirms that three independent people from the ADRB have developed a complete evaluation and unanimously recommend continuing with the initiated process, in accordance with the rules,” indicated the North American anti-doping body.

Armstrong's lawyer, Robert Luskin, made it clear that the US agency is "obsessed" with prosecuting the former cyclist and taking away all his triumphs. “USADA's decision against Armstrong is baseless,” he said in a statement.

“Which is not to say that it is totally predictable because the director of USADA, Mr. Travis Tygart, has been obsessed – for the last six years – with pursuing Lance Armstrong. USADA has achieved the shameful record of arrogance,” he added.

The accusation, which points to Armstrong as guilty of systematic doping from 1999 to 2005, also points to two doctors, a coach and a medical assistant, as well as the aforementioned Johan Bruyneel, who is still active directing RadioShack, a team sponsored by Armstrong himself two years ago.

“I am very sad to announce that I have decided, for the first time in many years, not to attend the Tour de France. The history of the Tour should be the achievements of its riders and the excitement of our great sport,” said the Belgian, who already announced his resignation a week ago.

Europapress