Alberto Contador has said that the long delay in resolving his case is not a normal one and that he regrets that it has taken so long to reach a decision. On Tuesday CAS stated that the hearing which was due to take place between August 1st and 3rd will be held later in the year, ‘probably in November 2011.’
The rider tested positive for Clenbuterol during last year’s Tour de France. While the case was originally expected to be heard and a verdict reached prior to the 2011 edition, it was subsequently postponed. The latest date revision is the second such delay.
“It is a pity and it is sad that this continues a year later,” he told Marca. “It should be clarified already and it is not normal that this is so late, but I hope that everything goes well and it is all concluded.”
However WADA has told VeloNation that the sheer quantity of files submitted by Contador’s legal team is the reason for the delay.
“I can confirm that in agreement with all parties involved, WADA requested from CAS a second exchange of briefs in order for its experts to have an opportunity to respond to the voluminous evidence filed by Mr. Contador,” said spokesman Terence O’Rorke.
The previous delay which prevented the June hearing was due to one of Contador’s lawyers indicating that he would be unable to attend at the specified dates.
As a result of that, he was able to compete in the Tour de France. He finished fifth overall in the event.