Frank Vandenbroucke (Acqua & Sapone) has gained a new lease on his career with his successful...
Frank Vandenbroucke (Acqua e Sapone) (Image credit: Sirotti)
Frank Vandenbroucke (Acqua & Sapone) has gained a new lease on his career with his successful acquittal on charges of possession of doping products. The Belgian Supreme court ruled that Vandenbroucke, who was caught in 2002 with a laundry list of banned products in his house, including EPO, Clenbuterol, growth hormones, testosterone, morphine, and amphetamines, had already served a sporting suspension of six months in 2002, and therefore would face double jeopardy if punished again.
According to Sporza, one of Vandenbroucke's lawyers, Johnny Maesschalck said "Vandenbroucke is enormously relieved. We have at last got our resolution in a matter which dragged on for many years."
Vandenbroucke reacted to the news from Italy on Sporza TV, saying "I've waited for this for five years. I very satisfied", said the former Classics star. "Do not forget that I have five difficult years behind me to heal... I have really paid too much for what has happened."
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Laura Weislo has been with Cyclingnews since 2006 after making a switch from a career in science. As Managing Editor, she coordinates coverage for North American events and global news. As former elite-level road racer who dabbled in cyclo-cross and track, Laura has a passion for all three disciplines. When not working she likes to go camping and explore lesser traveled roads, paths and gravel tracks. Laura specialises in covering doping, anti-doping, UCI governance and performing data analysis.
