UCI denies fast-tracking Froome TUE request

AIGLE, Switzerland (AP) The International Cycling Federation has dismissed reports that British rider Chris Froome was given a therapeutic use exemption (TUE) without following the correct protocol.

French newspaper Le Journal du Dimanche alleged that Team Sky's request ahead of the Tour de Romandie was authorized by the UCI medical supervisor without referring the case to a TUE committee, as required by World Anti-Doping Agency regulations.

On Sunday, the UCI said it has ''looked into the matter ... and confirms that nothing out of the ordinary occurred.''

Froome, who was taking corticosteroid prednisolone to fight a chest infection, won the race.

The UCI statement adds ''insinuating that (UCI President) Brian Cookson's son's employment with Team Sky could have something to do with the decision to grant the TUE is an unfounded allegation which will be dealt with seriously.''