Kohl's statements ripple through Austria

Bernhard Kohl's statements on Tuesday evening about doping in Austria triggered authorities to look into further investigations and put in doubt the country's key stage race.

The Österreich Rundfahrt ('Tour of Austria') stage race has been struggling to find sponsors for 2009 in light of Kohl's suspension for doping last November. His full admission of doping practices this week could see the race disappear from the calendar.

The race "is certainly in danger," according to Rudolf Massak, general secretary of the Austrian cycling federation. The main problem at the moment is that the television provider is considering cancelling its coverage of the event.

Tour Director Ursula Riha is not going to give up. "I will keep on fighting so that the Österreich Rundfahrt can continue."

Kohl tested positive at the 2008 Tour de France and is serving a two-year suspension. (SW)