The UCI reminds Johan Bruyneel that he is banned for life and asks for explanations from the Tour

The recent appearance of Johan Bruyneel at the Tour de France has provoked a strong reaction from the International Cycling Union (UCI). The former sports director of Lance Armstrong, banned for life for multiple violations of anti-doping rules, was seen at the start of the 12th stage in Auch, on a day that ended at the top of Hautacam.

Johan Bruyneel's presence at the Tour de France sparks UCI's indignation

According to the UCI, Bruyneel attended as part of his collaboration with the Belgian television program Vive le Vélo, broadcast by VRT1. However, his mere presence in restricted areas of the event has raised alarms from the world cycling governing body, which reminds that his ban is not limited to working for teams or participating in races.

"In accordance with Article 10.14 of the World Anti-Doping Code and the UCI Anti-Doping Regulations, Mr. Bruyneel is banned for life from participating in any activity related to cycling", emphasized the organization in an official statement.  "Although he can attend as a spectator at international calendar events, he is strictly prohibited from accessing restricted areas or assuming any role related to the event".

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This expressly includes access to spaces such as the team area, where he was seen during his presence at the Tour. Although the UCI does not directly manage the Tour's accreditation system, it has already contacted the organization —Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO)— to clarify if Bruyneel obtained any official accreditation, how it was possible, and to prevent it from happening again.

"The UCI is closely monitoring this issue and will take all necessary measures", concludes the statement.

Johan Bruyneel was banned for life in October 2018 for his involvement in the organized doping system that operated within the US Postal and Discovery Channel teams, with which Lance Armstrong won seven subsequently annulled Tours de France.

The reappearance of the Belgian former director at an event of the caliber of the Tour has reopened the debate on the firmness and enforcement of sanctions within professional cycling.