Tough anti-doping measures in place for Tour

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Cycling has been plagued by doping controversies in recent years, but the Cycling Anti-Doping Foundation (CADF) and the Agence Francaise de Lutte contre le Dopage (AFLD) will unite again at the 2014 Tour as part of a rigorous testing programme.

It was announced on Thursday that blood checks for all riders taking part in cycling's most iconic race will be taken just before the race begins.

Further tests and intelligence will be gathered as the race goes on and UCI president Brian Cookson is pleased to see the different organisations working together for the greater good.

"I am particularly delighted by this agreement between the UCI and the CADF and the AFLD on the Tour de France," Cookson said.

"This partnership demonstrates that all anti-doping organisations can join forces to ensure the reputation of cycling during one of the major events of its calendar and even of the international sporting one."

CADF and AFLD also worked together at last year's Tour de France and will be joined by UK Anti-Doping for the opening three stages this time around.

The 2014 event begins in Leeds, England, on Saturday.

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