Ullrich's Team Suspended After Failing to Pay Riders

Team Coast, the squad which includes the Olympic champion Jan Ullrich, was suspended from competition yesterday for failing to pay its riders' salaries for January and February.

Enrico Carpani of the International Cycling Union confirmed: "They will not enter any more races until they have paid their riders."

A squad sponsored by the clothing company will, however, be allowed to complete the Tour of Murcia in Spain, which finishes on Sunday.

Coast riders complained last year that they were not paid, and the squad was given a licence this year on the condition that it presented proof to the ICU that wages were being paid. "They knew we were checking up on them, but they still haven't paid," said Carpani.

The team's suspension is a further blow for Ullrich, who is banned from competing until March 24 after testing positive for amphetamines last June.