CONI asks for Basso and Scarponi suspension

The Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) has asked the disciplinary committee of the Italian Cycling Federation (FCI) for suspensions for Ivan Basso and Michele Scarponi. Both riders have confessed their involvement in Operación Puerto.

CONI asked for a "preventative suspension" while the investigation runs its course. No information was provided by CONI about the duration of the suspension although it confirmed the request on its website.

Basso admitted to "attempted doping," but denied using illegal substances or engaging in blood doping. Scarponi also signed a ten-page confession after meetings with CONI. Both riders have been cooperating with authorities since their admission, and while Italian media outlets have speculated that Basso might receive a reduced sentence in exchange for his cooperation, UCI President Pat McQuaid has denied such a possibility and heavily criticised Basso for waiting so long to admit his guilt.

The default doping violation punishment is two years suspension from cycling plus another two years prohibition from the ProTour.