Following the revelations of Lance Armstrong’s alleged use of performance-enhancing drugs, auto manufacturer Nissan has ended its sponsorship of RadioShack-Nissan, Armstrong’s last cycling team.
Armstrong and team manager Johan Bruyneel were implicated in an ongoing program of blood-doping by the United States Anti-Doping Association, leading to Armstrong being stripped of all his cycling titles earned since 1998.
Several of Armstrong’s teammates admitted to drug use during the USADA investigation, though all claimed to have ridden clean since 2006. Armstrong was accused of doping during his comeback seasons 2009–2011.
RadioShack rider Frank Schleck tested positive at the 2012 Tour de France and was forced to withdraw.
David Reuter, vice president of corporate communications for Nissan Americas, told Guardian.co.uk, “Nissan and the management team of RadioShack-Nissan-Trek cycling have reached an agreement that provides for Nissan’s immediate withdrawal as a sponsor of the team, while enabling the team to continue competing in the upcoming 2013 season. Nissan wishes the riders, team management and professional cycling well in future endeavors.”
Nissan is contracted to support the team through the end of the 2013 season; it will meet its obligations financially, but all Nissan branding will be removed from jerseys and bikes.
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