Quick Step promises legal action against Sinkewitz and ZDF

July 1st, 2009 by Al Fresco 658 views No Comment

We reported yesterday (look near the bottom of the page) that Patrik Sinkewitz, formerly of the T-Mobile and Quick Step teams reportedly told the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) during hearings in 2007 that Quick Step engaged in “systematic doping”. The German rider said that he received cortisone injections before each race as well as doses of EPO and growth hormones. He added that his hematocrit values were measured regularly to adjust the doses he received.

He revealed this on Germany’s Frontal 21 television program, which is broadcast by the ZDF network.

Quick Step was quick to respond to the allegations, calling it “false and defamatory content”, and pledged to launch appropriate legal actions with appropriate courts to protect its image and rights.

Sinkewitz’s allegations come just a few days before the case between the former world champion and Quick Step rider Paolo Bettini and ZDF following the events in Stuttgart in 2007 is dealt with. Just before the start of the World Championships in Stuttgart, Sinkewitz accused his then teammate Bettini of having testosterone delivered.

The team suspects a conspiracy.

“It is clear that the statements about the team that were broadcast during the Frontal 21 program do not come a few hours before the start of such an important event as the Tour de France by chance,” says team manager Patrick Lefevere.

It’s going to be interesting to see how this one plays out.

If Sinkewitz actually did tell this to WADA, we’re left with questions:

Whether he was lying or telling the truth, why didn’t WADA and/or the UCI open an investigation into Quick Step?
If he lied to WADA, is there some legal channel to accuse him of perjury?

My thought are that Quick Step is in the clear. If they are pursuing legal action like they say they are, they have to be confident that they are in the clear and can make it stick. Looking at some legal websites, Quick Step would have a case to sue for libel (written or otherwise published defamation of a person or entity). Of course, Quick Step would have to prove defamation (wrongful injury to their reputation) as well. If everyone thinks that Sinkewitz is a blabbering fool, it’s hard to prove that your reputation is damaged.

That said, Sinkewitz had to know that his statements were libelous and he was opening himself to scrutiny.

Worse case scenario? Sinkewitz is telling the truth and is able to back it up in court. WADA and UCI had the information two years ago, casting doubt on their ethics.

Cycling goes down in flames….