The two most recent cyclists to be questioned by French police in the ongoing doping investigation surrounding members past and present of the Cofidis team have each been released from police custody. Philippe Gaumont and Cédric Vasseur, both current members of Cofidis, were taken for questioning by French police Tuesday as they returned to Paris from the team's training camp in Calpe, Spain. Both appeared before a judge to face questioning concerning their possible involvement in either the use or transfer of prohibited substances.
Gaumont was the first to be released from police custody, but according to a l'Equipe report Thursday, he has admitted his own use of prohibited substances in competition. No charges have been filed against Gaumont, who stated to police that use of doping substances was habitual, even as recently as the 2003 Tour de France. Notably, Gaumont admitted to the use of EPO.
His confession is said to be prompted by statements by former Cofidis rider Robert Sassone, the third person to be arrested in the widening investigation, implicating Gaumont. This is the second drug investigation in which Gaumont has been called for questioning, the first being the case surrounding Bernard Sainz and Frank Vandenbroucke in early 2002.
Cédric Vasseur was held an extra 24 hours by police, before appearing before a judge Thursday morning. He was not charged after questioning, and his lawyer affirmed his innocence in the affair, saying "For now he has not been charged with anything. I found him to be relaxed despite the pressure of the questioning. When you're capable of riding Paris-Roubaix, you can stand up to an interrogation."