Devolder for a first, but no Boonen for Quick Step

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2008

PARIS (AFP) — Belgian superstar Tom Boonen is the major absence from the Quick Step team's Tour de France roster, announced Thursday, due to a recent positive test for cocaine.

The news of Boonen's career setback - which will not lead to sporting sanctions - left Tour de France officials to quickly decide he was not welcome at the July 5-27 race.

The Belgian outfit had hoped for some clemency for the race's reigning green jersey champion (points competition), underlining the fact he tested positive for a recreational drug.

But Quick Step have accepted the Tour owners' (ASO) decision.

"Although we continue to consider what happened to Tom as an extra-sports episode," said team manager Patrick Lefevere, "we also respect the position expressed by the...