Roy Hegreberg, Race Director of the Tour des Fjords, is said to have denied entry to the Norwegien race to both CCC and Astana.
Polish team CCC were told that their presence was not wanted thanks to them signing dopers Davide Rebellin and Stefan Schumacher.
"They are one of the teams who have had problems with the reputation," said Hegreberg to Procycling.no yesterday. "We think it is important to show a new sport. A lot has happened in this sport that is not good. Many teams have taken issue with it, but it does not seem that everyone takes it seriously."
Schumacher was contacted by Procycling.no for his reaction and asked why he thought he was unwelcome at the race.
"I did not know about it before you said it, so it's hard for me to comment on anything surrounding it. I must admit that I've made mistakes in the pass. It's not just me in my generation though. Many people have made mistakes, and many of them have got the opportunity to come back. I had the opportunity in this team, and I am grateful for that," said Schumacher. "I've had my sanctions, and have served them. I regret what I did, but I've also changed. I rode clean the past seven years. I think everyone should get a second chance, and it is also in line with the regulations."
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This decision though need to be applauded, however it should - indeed must, to have any validity - be applied consistently.
Garmin, Tinkoff, Lampre, Movistar, etc. etc. out of the Tour de France, anyone?