Team Katusha signs Alexandr Kolobnev
Alexandr Kolobnev was accused of systematic doping during the previous edition of the Tour de France.
He was tested positive for hydrochlorothiazide during the race and the final hearing on the case was made on February 2012.
Court of Arbitration for Sport cleared the cyclist from all the accusations. The organisation was convinced that the substance entered his system as a result of medication.
The cyclist has suffered from the vascular disease since a long time and apparently hydrochlorothiazide is an effective curing agent from the illness.
Clearing the drug allegations was one thing but the major worry for the Russian was to find a new home for his 2012 season.
Most of the World Teams were finished with their signings as the decision came out in the second month of the year.
However, Kolobnev was optimistic that he will be able to make it through to the final squad of his previous side, Team Katusha for the 2012 season.
Luckily for Alexandr, everything went according to the plan. Team Katusha included him for its final squad in the remaining part of the year.
The 30-year-old was overwhelmed after securing the contract, "I am very happy to receive a proposal to become a part of Katusha Team".
"I had a very hard period of time in my life, but I passed it. Already, it’s behind me.
"I thank the Russian Cycling Federation and its President Igor Makarov for the big support that was provided to me".
"With the help of Mr Makarov I can ride for Katusha again. I think I have enough power and motivation to strengthen the team in the Classics as well as in other races of the season," he concluded.
The cyclist joined Team Katusha in 2010 and has secured a number of victories for the team.
He has also represented Team Acqua e Sapone-Cantina Tollo (2002), Team Domina Vacanze (2003-04), Team Rabobank (2005-06) and Team CSC (2007-09) during his impressive career.
The Russian side has grabbed four stage victories in the season so far. However, it is still searching for its first overall win.
Kolobnev is currently suffering from a training accident and his return at the professional scene is still not certain.
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