Cycling: Lance Armstrong still defiant after loss of seven titles

USADA gave Armstrong a lifetime ban after the Texan said he would no longer be contesting the doping charges levelled against him. The organisation say they have over a dozen witnesses, – up to ten of whom are believed to be former team-mates – who agreed to testify and give evidence that the Texan used performance-enhancing drugs and encouraged others to do so.

Speaking at the weekend in Aspen, Colorado, where he finished second in a 36-mile mountain bike race behind 16-year-old rider Keegan Swirbul, Armstrong – who has never failed a drugs test – was in no mood for self-pity. “Nobody needs to cry for me, I’m going to be great,” he told reporters. “I have five great kids and a wonderful lady in my life. My foundation is unaffected by all the noise out there.

“I think people understand that we’ve got a lot of stuff to do going forward. That’s what I’m focused on and I think people are supportive of that. It’s great to be out here.”

The retired Armstrong said he was no longer concerned about racing. “It’s more about staying fit and coming out here and enjoying one of the most beautiful parts of the world, on a beautiful day, on a very hard course,” added the 40-year-old. “Some may say you’re a little sick to spend your free time doing stuff like this. I had a good time.”

The International Cycling Union have said that they will not give any further comment until viewing USADA’s evidence.

Despite giving up the fight against the charges, Armstrong has maintained his innocence and railed against what he says is an unfair witch-hunt.