Spanish cyclist becomes first doping failure of the Games

Spanish cyclist Maira Isabelle Moreno became the first athlete to fail a doping test here at the Olympic Games, the IOC revealed on Monday.

The 27-year-old tested positive for EPO having undergone the test on July 31. She left the athletes village on the evening of the 31st before she knew of the results of the test.

Giselle Davies, IOC spokeswoman, announced Moreno’s positive test. “The IOC means business in stamping out doping,” she said. “The test of the athlete revealed that she had tested positive for EPO. “Moreno left China the evening of the test, before she knew of the results. “Her accreditation has been cancelled and withdrawn by the IOC. We have asked the sport’s governing body, the International Cycling Union (UCI) to follow it up as any disciplinary measures will be complete after the Games finish.”

Moreno had been considered one of Spain’s best hopes for a cycling medal in the women’s road race.