Holczer stands fast on DNA tests

By Susan Westemeyer

A rider who is unwilling to supply a DNA sample probably doesn't stand a good chance of riding for Team Gerolsteiner according to team manager Hans-Michael Holczer. "Many riders still haven't recognised it yet, that nobody can and will force them to give a DNA sample. But it is the best possibility for them to exonerate themselves if they face doping charges," said Holczer in the Gäubote newspaper.

And if a rider refuses? "Then it's time for me as team boss to stand firm. In the end, the team belongs to me and my wife. We are the ones who make the rules and decide who we will hire."

Holczer refused to comment on Discovery Channel's signing of Ivan Basso saying; "I'm not going to take a position. I would rather say things to my colleagues face-to-face rather than through the media."