Serrano attacks CONI

The Madrid judge, Antonio Serrano, in charge of Operación Puerto says that CONI's actions in regards to obtaining the blood bag are "null and void." CONI has obtained the blood bags and compared the DNA to Alejandro Valverde. Valverde will have a hearing with CONI on February 19, at 17:00.

Serrano's comments were reported on Spanish press agency EFE. The statement went on to say that CONI had not obtained the necessary permission to proceed in the case.

The judge investigating Operación Puerto sent a clear message. "I am prohibiting exclusively for the acquired evidence to be used in the investigation by other parties, as is the case with Alejandro Valverde Belmonte."

Valverde's lawyer, Federico Cecconi, declared that the Spanish rider will be appearing before CONI regardless. "Valverde expressed his wish to go to Rome tomorrow and explain his position in Operación Puerto," Cecconi said.(AS)