UCI bans British cyclist Simon Yates for 4 months

AIGLE, Switzerland (AP) The International Cycling Union says it banned British rider Simon Yates for four months for a positive test for a prohibited substance.

The UCI says the ban for a ''non-intentional'' rules violation runs through July 11, barring Yates from selection for the Tour de France which starts on July 2.

Yates completed the Tour last year - finishing 89th - and was expected to be picked by the Orica-GreenEdge team.

The 23-year-old Yates tested positive for Terbutaline during the Paris-Nice stage race in March.

The Australia-based team said a doctor erred by not formally requesting permission for Yates to use an asthma inhaler as medication.

The UCI says the case was ''resolved via an acceptance of consequences'' agreement.