Vacansoleil put its rider Riccardo Riccò in non-active mode today. The team followed rumors about a blood transfusion of Riccò with its own investigation, reaching the conclusion that there were problems. The suspension starts immediately.
The team released a statement today, confirming its quick action against the Italian rider. "Internal research results following the illness and rumors regarding Riccò has given the team sufficient reason to suspend Italian with immediate effect," it said.
Soon after the news about Riccò being hospitalized, Vacansoleil started an investigation to see if the rumors about blood doping were true. "Three days later the results of this study, the team concluded that an immediate suspension of Riccò was required." The team blames the rider for not following the rules set up for all the athletes on the team. "The violation of internal regulations of the team and other indications justify this measure. Today, Riccò received a registered letter on this matter."
The future for the Italian with the team is uncertain. "Besides the suspension the team has also put the working relationship with Riccò up for discussion; the team will of course follow the appropriate legal route on this matter."
Vacansoleil is not trying to jump to conclusions. "The team can not prejudge, but emphasizes that a zero-tolerance policy towards doping is practiced." Riccò was already suspended after returning a positive doping test in the 2008 Tour de France.