Team Astana Qazaqstan has lifted Miguel Ángel López's suspension as no evidence has been found. The team temporarily suspended him last week after news of his involvement in a Spanish doping investigation was published.
He was questioned at Madrid airport by agents regarding his involvement in drug trafficking. After the news came to light, Astana Qazaqstan responded with a temporary suspension of the rider. But since no evidence has been found, the team has revoked his suspension. “López's provisional suspension has now been lifted due to a lack of evidence from Spanish authorities and the UCI. As a result, the team was not in a position to extend the suspension or deny the rider his contractual rights for any longer," the statement read.
The team also revealed he will be part of the upcoming Vuelta a Espana. "Miguel Ángel López is, therefore, back with Astana for the time being and will complete the pre-determined race program. The Colombian rider will wear a race number again on Tuesday for the Tour of Burgos and will then also compete in the last big stage race of the season, the Vuelta a España.”
Astana Qazaqstan will keep a close eye and respond with appropriate action if further evidence is found. "The team has sent all the information to the international testing agency ITA. We will monitor the situation closely and will not hesitate to take decisive measures if necessary."
🇨🇴 STATEMENT: @SupermanlopezN Based on the information received, Astana Qazaqstan Team was advised that in the absence of any finding by either the Spanish authorities or the UCI, it was not in a position to continue the suspension. Full text: bit.ly/3PR9E5E
