Bruyneel fears hearing 'prejudiced' by USADA

[October 18, 2012]  BRUSSELS (AP) -- Johan Bruyneel intends to fight charges he was a central figure in doping programs within Lance Armstrong's teams provided his defense hasn't been "permanently prejudiced" by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency's accusations.

Armstrong's former manager was a key figure in USADA's damning report into massive doping undertaken in American cycling teams he oversaw. While Armstrong chose not to contest the USADA charges, Bruyneel is opting for arbitration.

Bruyneel, who left the RadioShack-Nissan team last week, says "I will continue to be involved in legal proceedings relating to USADA's proposed charges as long as I believe that I am still able to receive a fair hearing."

The Belgian is "still stunned" at the charges USADA leveled against him and will provide a "balanced account of events" after his defense is heard.

[Associated Press]

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