Share

Doping Leipheimer retires

Washington - Levi Leipheimer, without a team since admitting to doping, has retired from professional cycling, a US newspaper reported.

The American was fired by Omega Pharma in October following his admission during an investigation by the United States Anti-Doping Agency into shamed compatriot Lance Armstrong.

"I'm retired," he told The Press Democrat on Sunday on the sidelines of the final stage of the Amgen Tour of California.

"It's just been an unceremoniously retired," Leipheimer said. "I sort of miss racing. I still love riding my bike."

The 39-year-old veteran -- who rode with Armstrong for US Postal in 2000 and 2001 and then again with Discovery Channel in 2007 -- served a six month suspension imposed by USADA that ended March 1.

Leipheimer admitted to taking several banned substances including EPO and testosterone, as well as using blood transfusions, which are prohibited.

His results between June 1, 1999, to July 30, 2006 and July 7 to July 29, 2007 - the periods of time he admitted to doping as he continued with other teams such as Rabobank and Gerolsteiner - were erased from the record.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE