Carlos Barredo suspended for two months
Spanish cyclist Carlos Barredo will have the start of his first season with team Rabobank delayed due to a two-month ban sentenced on Friday, 29 October, by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).
The former Quick Step rider will not be allowed to take part in any races in the first two months of 2011.
"Mr C. Barredo infringed article 12.1.005 of the UCI Regulations (blemishing of the image, the reputation or the interests of cycling and the UCI) during the 2010 Tour de France,” read the statement released by the UCI.
Barredo infamously attacked Caisse d’Epargne rider Rui Costa with his bike wheel at the end of the sixth stage of this year’s Tour de France, claiming his opponent had intentionally touched handlebars with him in the finale. Costa responded violently and
the incident became a fistfight.
"There were things that happened in the race, the product of stress," said Barredo. "I realize that my attitude was not correct and I take the penalty. These things should not happen."
The riders were both immediately fined 300 Euros and the incident went to the UCI’s disciplinary panel, who ruled on Friday that Barredo, as the instigator, would be served a two-month ban. The 29-year-old Spaniard will therefore begin his time with Rabobank
in March.
On Thursday, Barredo published an open letter to his fans to say farewell to a successful four years with Belgian team Quick Step. The rider named his victory at the 2009 Clasica San Sebastian as the best of his career, which has included a stage win and
top-10 finish in the Vuelta a Espana.
"Here I've always felt at home. I was supported and valued like I had always dreamt of. I worked with a staff of great professionals and raced side by side with some fantastic athletes. We nurtured a friendship and deep mutual respect that which will never
fade in time, not even next year when I will be racing wearing a different jersey."
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