Facts
The UK Anti-Doping Organization (UKAD) charges Jonathan Tiernan-Locke, the rider, for a violation against the Anti-Doping Rules. A blood sample was taken on September 22, 2013, his Athlete's Biological passport (ABP) indicated the use of an erythropoietin stimulating agent and blood doping or physical manipulating of the blood.
History
The rider claims that his exceptional and extreme intake of alcohol consumption on September 20, 20013, caused the changes in his blood. Dehydration decreases the plasma level and increases the concentration of hemoglobin. He denies to have taken or used a prohibited substance or method.
Three expert unanimously think that a prohibited substance was used. In the final conclusion it is regarded that there is no valid explanation for the abnormal high level of hemoglobin and the low level of reticulocytes, which compels the conclusion that a prohibited substance or method has been used by the rider.
Decision
1. The sanction is a period of ineligibility of two years starting from January 1, 2014.
2. All his results obtained at the 2012 Tour of Britain and the 2012 UCI World Tour are cancelled.
3. A fine of £ 15,400 is imposed.
4. The rider has to pay the costs of € 324 and CHF 2,500.
