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Tour OKs Armstrong Return

7-time American champ OK to ride in France next summer—as long as team stays clean

By the Associated Press

Posted Sep 25, 2008 11:56 AM CDT
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(AP) – Lance Armstrong can return to the Tour de France in 2009 if his team avoids doping scandals, the race director said today after the seven-time champion confirmed his comeback with the Astana squad. The team was barred from this year's Tour because of doping problems in the past. “They should be there if there are no ethical problems,” Christian Prudhomme said.

He says he isn't sure whether Armstrong can win after 3 years away, but almost everyone is talking about his surprise comeback. Prudhomme adds that he wants the race—which starts July 4 in Monaco—retains its "humanity," meaning that riders seem to make a real effort and don’t fly up tough mountain passes as when doping was more widespread.

Lance Armstrong speaks as Tayler Phinney and Doug Ulman, CEO of the Lance Armstrong Foundation, look on at the Clinton Global Initiative annual meeting yesterday in New York.
Lance Armstrong speaks as Tayler Phinney and Doug Ulman, CEO of the Lance Armstrong Foundation, look on at the Clinton Global Initiative annual meeting yesterday in New York.   (AP Photo)
Lance Armstrong won the Tour de France from 1999-2005, and can return in 2009 as long as his Astana team steers clear of further doping violations.
Lance Armstrong won the Tour de France from 1999-2005, and can return in 2009 as long as his Astana team steers clear of further doping violations.   (AP Photo)
Lance Armstrong heads out for a cancer research fundraising bike ride in Canada earlier this month.
Lance Armstrong heads out for a cancer research fundraising bike ride in Canada earlier this month.   (AP Photo)
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cancer • cycling • Tour de France • doping • Lance Armstrong • sports doping

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