Because of Armstrong: UCI President Lappartient not at the Tour of Flanders

Brussels (SID) UCI President David Lappartient will refrain from visiting the Tour of Flanders because the organizer is sticking to the invitation for Lance Armstrong. The head of the World Cycling Federation explained this in an interview with the Belgian daily newspaper Het Nieuwsblad. "I cannot confiscate Armstrong's American passport and prevent him from coming to Belgium," said the Frenchman, "but I am not happy with the situation and will not visit the Ronde." On the one hand, Armstrong is scheduled to appear as the first speaker at the newly founded "Business Academy" two days before the race and, on the other hand, to attend the famous spring classic himself on April 1st. "As far as I'm concerned, he's very welcome. Lance Armstrong is and remains a great champion," said organization boss Wouter Vandenhaute when the invitation was announced in December. "He will of course attract a lot of attention, but that is not the image that cycling should have. We want to promote a clean sport and Armstrong is not a symbol of that," said Lappartient, who also referred to the Texan's life ban pointed out, which prohibits him from taking part in any UCI events: "He is not allowed to sit in a support vehicle." Vandenhaute wants to get around this by having Armstrong appear at various locations during the race, but without riding in the accompanying caravan. "Lance said he didn't want to be a burden and allowed me to make other arrangements. He is the keynote speaker on Friday. I would find it rude and unhospitable not to invite him to the Ronde on Sunday," Vandenhaute defended himself at Het Nieuwsblad.

Football

Italy

International leagues

International

Winter sports

Hockey

Tennis

Other sports

Motorsport

Cycling

Watersports

Events

Favorites

Because of Armstrong: UCI President Lappartient not at the Tour of Flanders

Suggestions

Comments (0)