Armstrong investigation delayed by amnesty issue

The International Cycling Union independent commission investigating the relationship between cycling’s world governing body and Lance Armstrong is facing a problem over a dispute over the implementation of an amnesty for witnesses.

A procedural hearing held yesterday was adjourned until 31 January to allow “the participants to reach an agreement in principle, if not detail” over the prospect of witnesses giving evidence without retribution.

Separately yesterday, the UCI announced its intention to hold a distinct Truth and Reconciliation Commission with the World Anti-Doping Agency to look at doping in professional cycling, after the independent commission investigates.

The independent commission was set up in the wake of the United States Anti-Doping Agency’s investigation into Armstrong and the doping practices of his United States Postal Service team, with part of its remit to investigate the relationship between the American and the UCI. Armstrong has since admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs. The commission, which includes 11-time Paralympic champion wheelchair racer Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson and is chaired by former Court of Appeal judge Sir Philip Otton, believe an amnesty is required so a witness can provide evidence “without the fear of subsequent disciplinary action against them”.

Wada, Usada and pressure group Change Cycling Now agree and will only participate if the amnesty is in place. The commission also favours an amnesty and negotiations with the UCI, which has accepted it will provide one, will continue until next Thursday.

A statement from the UCI independent commission read: “The commission is persuaded that we should allow an opportunity for discussions to continue and for the parties to reach a viable agreement in sufficient detail on an amnesty.”