The UCI’s lengthy statement on Monday morning did not specify why it had dropped the case against Froome, beyond noting that the World
Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) had indicated that it "would accept, based on
the specific facts of the case, that Mr Froome’s sample results do not
constitute an AAF [adverse analytical finding].”
“I am very pleased that the UCI has exonerated me,” Froome said in a statement issued by Team Sky. “While this decision is obviously a big
deal for me and the Team, it’s also an important moment for cycling. I
understand the history of this great sport – good and bad. I have always
taken my leadership position very seriously and I always do things the
right way. I meant it when I said that I would never dishonour a
winner’s jersey and that my results would stand the test of time.”
News of Froome’s salbutamol positive broke in December of last year, but the Briton ignored UCI president David Lappartient wish that he
recuse himself from racing until the case was resolved. Froome proceeded
to win the Giro d’Italia in May and is now set to line out as favourite
for the Tour de France, although ASO has made a formal attempt to block
his participation on the grounds that his presence would damage the
reputation in the race.
“I have never doubted that this case would be dismissed for the simple reason that I have known throughout I did nothing wrong. I have
suffered with asthma since childhood. I know exactly what the rules are
regarding my asthma medication and I only ever use my puffer to manage
my symptoms within the permissible limits,” Froome said.
“Of course, the UCI had to examine these test results from the Vuelta. Unfortunately, the details of the case did not remain
confidential, as they should have done. And I appreciate more than
anyone else the frustration at how long the case has taken to resolve
and the uncertainty this has caused. I am glad it’s finally over.
“I am grateful for all the support I have had from the Team and from many fans across the world. Today’s ruling draws a line. It means we
can all move on and focus on the Tour de France.”
