The Tour de France has felt the first big financial effect of the Floyd Landis affair, with its main car sponsor Skoda choosing not to renew its contract when it finishes at the end of 2007. The Czech car manufacturer said that while it was "generally content with the sponsorship" it didn't want its image to be associated with doping scandals such as the one involving Landis.
Skoda, part of the Volkswagen group, has been sponsoring the race since 2004, when it took over from Fiat. Its sponsorship of the world's biggest bike race has helped increase its visibility in several key European markets.
Cyclingnews' coverage of the Floyd Landis case
September 28, 2008 - Landis takes case to US federal court
September 10, 2008 - Landis signing with current Health Net-Maxxis team for 2009
July 1, 2008 - CAS delivers final blow to Landis legal challenge
June 30, 2008 - Landis loses final appeal
June 28, 2008 - Landis decision due Monday
March 12, 2008 - Landis' judgment day nears
October 21, 2007 - Landis files appeal with CAS
October 18, 2007 - AFLD takes another look at Landis case
Thursday, October 11 - Landis continues fight, appeals to CAS
Saturday, September 22 - UCI officially names Pereiro 2006 Tour champion, Landis case raises issues
Friday, September 21 - Landis' appeal denied, two year suspension levied
Cyclingnews' complete coverage of the Floyd Landis case
