I’m sad to say that I’ve decided that for the first time in many years I will not be attending this year’s Tour de France. The story of the Tour should be the achievements of its riders and the thrill of our great sport. I dearly wish to be there but my attendance in light of the recent USADA allegations against me would be an unwelcome distraction to my team, and to all those participating in and supporting the Tour.

This is why I’ve decided - after consulting with the Team’s main sponsors and in agreement with the Senior Management of Leopard - not to attend the race. It is unfortunate that these latest, unfounded accusations have resulted in my withdrawal from the Tour, although I hope to prove my innocence and resolve this matter soon and once and for all.

As the General Manager of Leopard, I have a lot of confidence in the quality and experience of the team directors who will direct our team at the Tour de France and I’m very hopeful to see top performances of our riders during the first 3 weeks of July. I wish the directors, riders and support staff good luck in what should be a thrilling race.

Finally, I wish to thank all the people who have been sending me their kind messages of support.

Johan Bruyneel.