UCI examines Sella's one-year recommended sentence

By Gregor Brown

The International Cycling Union (UCI) will examine the investigation files pertaining to Emanuele Sella, 27, to determine if he merits a one-year sentence. The Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) recommended the suspension for the Italian, positive for EPO-CERA, on Tuesday based on his cooperation during hearings.

"We have asked CONI for the file so that we see what is in it. ... We asked for the file so we can study it before the hearing takes place, so that we can give an opinion as to how we feel of the one-year [suspension]," said UCI President Pat McQuaid to Cyclingnews.

Italy's anti-doping tribunal will review the related documents before it issues the official suspension on Monday, December 1

Sella broke through in the Giro d'Italia. He won the mountain classification's maglia verde and three demanding stages. The UCI targeted Sella and found him positive for the third generation EPO in an out-of-competition control taken on July 23.

One-year was the minimal suspension CONI could recommend based on World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules. The duration indicates CONI could be ready to start a new round of investigations and that the rider from Vicenza provided convincing information. He indicated then CSF Group teammate Matteo Priamo, winner of Giro d'Italia stage six, as the supplier during his August 8 hearing with prosecutor Ettore Torri, but how much more he revealed is unknown.

"We are happy to see this encouragement [to talk and name names] as long as the information is worthwhile and it assists. [The WADA rule] is quite specific what information is acceptable for a reduced sentence. Important information is needed, and if this falls within that then 'well and good.'"

Sella is unavailable for comment prior to the December ruling.