Tour de France 2006

[Asylum Steve]

Brian, did you see the interview with Tyler Hamilton last week? Seems he's in a very touchy situation.

His two year ban is almost up, but a rule change while he was appealing his case (after the ban started, but before the final decision) now says after the two year total ban (no competeing whatsoever), a cyclist must then serve an additional two year pro ban, meaning Tyler could race, but NOT for a pro team.

There is a question of whether this new rule should apply to Tyler, as his suspension started before it came about, but there are some in cycling's governing body that assume it will apply to him.

The final ruling in Hamilton's case will have a huge effect on his career. He wants to race in the World Championships this year (as well as resume his normal pro career), but if the additional two year ban is enforced, that's pretty much it for his career.

And what a sad way that would be for him to go out...

[mtbbrian]

I didn't see the interview you are talking about Steve, and I don't know a lot about the case, but if he "broke the rules" then he "broke the rules" and should be punished accordingly.

He seems to have quite a case on his website, http://www.tylerhamilton.com/tylerscase232.html
I wish him all the best, his absence this year meant there were only eight US riders, which isn't enough to field a complete team.
Brian