The Spanish cycling federation has announced its decision to ban Santiago Perez for two years from professional cycling because of blood doping offenses. "Santi" Perez was riding for Phonak last season and impressed with very strong performances during the Vuelta a España, where he finally placed second behind overall winner Roberto Heras. He was tested out of competition in Switzerland, a week after the Vuelta had finished.
The Spaniard has already made public that he will appeal the decision. His ex-teammate Tyler Hamilton also tested positive for blood doping during last year's Vuelta, and is also appealing the decision.
