Richard Freeman banned for four years for anti-doping violations and misconduct charges

Posted : 15 August 2023

Former British Cycling and Team Sky chief doctor Richard Freeman has been handed a four-year ban from all sports due to violations of anti-doping regulations. This ban comes as a result of a series of misconduct charges that Freeman faced during the course of his involvement in cycling.

Freeman's medical license was revoked in 2021 following a hearing by the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service due to misconduct. In December 2020, he was charged with two violations by UK Anti-Doping (Ukad), which triggered an independent panel investigation. This panel has now concluded that Freeman was in possession of a prohibited substance and engaged in tampering or attempted tampering with doping control protocols.

The ban, effective from December 22, 2020, has been backdated to coincide with his provisional suspension. Freeman's attempt to appeal his permanent removal from the medical register was rejected by the High Court in January.

Ukad had temporarily paused its proceedings against Freeman during his appeal process. However, after his appeal was denied, the case resumed. In July 2023, the National Anti-Doping Panel (NADP) reviewed Ukad's evidence and ruled that both charges were substantiated – possession of banned substances and tampering with doping control procedures.

In March 2021, the General Medical Council (GMC) found Freeman guilty of procuring banned testosterone to be used by a cyclist. This pertained to an incident in 2011 when a delivery of 30 Testogel sachets was sent to British Cycling's headquarters.

During an interview with Ukad in 2017, Freeman asserted that the Testogel had been ordered for a non-cyclist staff member and subsequently returned to the supplier for disposal. However, Ukad's investigation revealed that the Testogel had not been returned as claimed by Freeman. The evidence collected indicated a discrepancy in his statement.

The outcome of this case underscores the importance of maintaining a level playing field in sports and adhering to anti-doping regulations. Jane Rumble, Ukad's chief executive, emphasized that the rules apply to all individuals involved in sports, including athlete support personnel. This decision sends a strong message about the responsibility to uphold integrity in sports.

Mario Theophanous, head of Ukad's intelligence and investigations team, acknowledged the complexity of the investigation and expressed gratitude to those who came forward to provide information.

British Cycling's chair, Frank Slevin, emphasized the organization's commitment to thorough examination of all matters and to supporting anti-doping investigations. He stated that Freeman's behavior did not align with the ethical and professional standards expected by the organization and its partners.

Richard Freeman banned for four years for anti-doping violations and misconduct charges

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics