CPA wants more protection for riders

The Association of Professional Cyclists is calling for stronger protection of riders' confidentiality and more rigorous testing methods with regard to doping affairs. After recent cases involving both positive test results (Heras) and the overturning of some riders' sanctions (Capelle), the CPA wants things to be tightened up.

In a letter sent to the UCI ProTour council, the CPA stated that, "The riders particularly would like the doubts connected with the credibility of the results of the analysis, which are carried out within the framework of the antidoping controls to be dispelled for good. They also would like the divulgence of information to be avoided, which in the past too often preceded the official information and confirmation the relevant authority has to send to the persons involved."

Furthermore, the CPA has sided with the ACCPI (Italian Professional Riders Association) in protesting against the half-stages planned for the final day of the 2006 Giro d'Italia. The CPA said it "deplores the fact that the organizers, once again, have no consideration for the riders and their associations, as they never consult them beforehand."

Finally, the CPA has paid €10,000 into Alessio Galletti's widow's account. The Italian rider died during a race on June 15 in Spain. The gesture from his colleagues will help Mrs. Saviozzi, who is expecting a second child, provide for her family before she receives insurance benefits.