3 Oct 2008

Lance Armstrong blows chance says head of French anti doping

7:40 am on 3 October 2008

The head of the French anti doping agency says American cyclist Lance Arnstrong has missed an opportunity to end speculation his stellar career was boosted by doping.

Pierre Bordry invited Armstromg to have his first Tour de France win sample from 1999 re tested for the blood boosting drug EPO but Arnstrong has declined arguing the samples weren't stored correctly.

But Bordry says Armstrong has blown a chance to clear up any doubts about his abilities.

Meanwhile Tour Down Under cycling officials expect to know today if Armstrong will make his comeback to professional cycling in their event next January.

Rules require riders coming out of retirement to be in the sport's anti-doping program for six months before racing and it hasn't been confirmed if Armstrong has met this requirement.