MADRID (AP) — Spanish cyclist Eladio Jimenez has been banned for two years for doping with the blood-boosting hormone EPO.
The International Cycling Union says the suspension was imposed by Spain’s national federation, which also fined him $11,000. The dates for his ban were not disclosed.
Jimenez failed a doping test after winning stage six of the Tour of Portugal for the CC Loule team last August. The 34-year-old rider said last December that he would retire if banned.
Jimenez’s career highlights were stage wins at the Spanish Vuelta in 2000, ’04 and ’05.