‘Froome should do what’s right for cycling’

Manama : Bahrain-Merida’s leader Vincenzo Nibali says that Team Sky’s Chris Froome should consider postponing his season while his salbutamol legal case unfolds, to “do what is best for cycling.” 

Bahrain’s Nibali finished second to Froome in the Vuelta a España in 2017, where Froome tested for double the legal limit of asthma drug salbutamol after stage 18.

Froome and Team Sky both deny any wrongdoing.

“It’s right that Froome defends himself with the best experts and lawyers possible,” Nibali said.

“I’ve seen in the past with athletes that it’s better not to race because if you race and the ban arrives, then you lose everything, all the results and suspension. But it’s a decision for the team and the rider.

“Froome faces the decision. I would advise him as a friend, even if we are not that friendly, to make the best decision for this sport. For the fans and the current movement in cycling. He knows. He knows the facts and the process.”

Nibali was due to start his season in Argentina at the Vuelta a San Juan on Sunday but he was sick the morning of the race and cancelled his plans. He will now travel back to Italy on Wednesday and begin his season at the Tour of Oman in Feburary.