UCI chief Brian Cookson has slammed Lance Armstrong‘s plans to participate in a charity ride around the Tour de France route, saying they were “completely disrespectful”.
SEE ALSO:
Lance Armstrong to return to Tour de France, but for cancer charity ride
Lance Armstrong releases statement thanking CIRC for “seeking the truth”
Lance Armstrong loses $10 million court case with promotions company
According to AFP, Armstrong has signed up to take part in the event organised by former England footballer Geoff Thomas.
The American was stripped of his seven Tour de France titles for doping offences, and Cookson wants Armstrong to reconsider his plans to ride in the event.
“I’m sure that Geoff Thomas means well, but frankly, I think that’s completely inappropriate and disrespectful to the Tour, disrespectful to the current riders, and disrespectful to the UCI and the anti-doping community,” Cookson is quoted as saying by AFP.
“I think Lance would be well advised not to take part in that.”
Cookson said that Armstrong’s could have found a more tasteful way to raise money for charity.
“I’m not critical of people trying to raise funds for charity, let’s be clear. But I think maybe Lance could find a better way of continuing his fundraising efforts than this,” Cookson said.
“Lance Armstrong can ride his bike around France as often as he likes. It’s got nothing to do with me or the UCI.”
COMMENTS