Italian cleared in doping row

ALESSANDRO PETACCHI was yesterday cleared of doping charges by the Italian Cycling Federation.

The 33-year-old returned a “non-negative” test for salbutamol after winning the 11th stage of the Giro d’Italia on May 23.

But it was announced in Rome yesterday that the Italian, a registered asthmatic, was permitted to use salbutamol for medical reasons.

“It’s one of the most beautiful victories of my life,” said Petacchi, suspended by the Milram team and forced to miss this year’s Tour de France because of the charges.

“I always believed I hadn’t done anything, and now I’m coming out with my head held high.”

Cycling is currently in crisis with Tour leader Michael Rasmussen embroiled in a fresh doping row.