Tygart called Landis “the first whistle-blower,” and his revelations prompted a federal investigation that looked into Armstrong’s involvement in possible doping-related crimes. (The case was dropped early this year, with no charges brought.) Other riders soon began to share their stories about the doping scheme on Armstrong’s teams, both with the federal agents and the antidoping agency.
Tyler Hamilton, who this month was stripped of his Olympic gold medal from 2004 for doping, was one of them. His book, “The Secret Race: Inside the Hidden World of the Tour de France: Doping, Cover-ups and Winning at All Costs,” is set for publication next month.
George Hincapie, one of the most respected and well-liked American riders in history, also came forward. He was the only rider to be at Armstrong’s side for all of Armstrong’s seven Tour victories. He has never admitted doping, so his testimony threatened to rock the sport.
One of the most damning witnesses against him was one of his closest friends:
Because Hincapie is considered a credible and reluctant witness, his testimony could be the most damaging evidence against Armstrong, who is accused of doping and playing a key role in a vast doping conspiracy. According to people with knowledge of the case, Hincapie has told the United States Anti-Doping Agency about systematic doping on Armstrong’s teams, of which Armstrong played a part.
Last month, the agency charged Armstrong and several of his associates with doping violations.
“There are certain riders who, you know, ooze respect, and George is one of them,” said Stuart O’Grady, an Australian rider who has raced against Hincapie for about 20 years. “I don’t think anyone dislikes George. He’s just an all-around nice guy.”
Lance's chief "persecutor" talks about the case against him.
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