Share

WADA, UCI have Operation Puerto blood samples

Montreal - The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and International Cycling Union (UCI) said Wednesday they have taken possession of stored blood samples and plasma bags from the Spanish "Operation Puerto" doping case.

A Madrid appeals court provided access to the samples from cyclists and athletes in tennis and football to WADA and the UCI last month and those samples are now being stored at an unspecified WADA-accredited laboratory outside of Spain.

"WADA and the UCI will continue their joint investigation into Operation Puerto, and will consider all possible legal options," the joint statement said.

In May of 2006, 211 blood and plasma bags were seized by Spanish police from the offices or Dr. Eufemiano Fuentes as part of a suspected doping ring.

Fuentes was given a one-year suspended sentence for endangering public health. Five cyclists were found to have violated anti-doping rules. A judge had ordered the bags destroyed but appeals by WADA and UCI among others led to authorities handing over the evidence instead.

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% - 1271 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1469 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2239 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