Paolini case referred to UCI Anti-Doping Tribunal

Luca Paolini's battle to clear his name after being provisionally suspended for testing positive for cocaine will be heard by an International Cycling Union (UCI) Anti-Doping Tribunal.

The former Katusha rider was withdrawn from the Tour de France in July after an adverse finding was found in a sample on the fourth day of the grand tour.

Paolini " who maintained his innocence " subsequently saw his contract with Katusha terminated a year early, however he could return to the sport with his case finally set to be heard.

Katusha bosses have suggested they are open to a possible return if the 38-year-old is cleared, and a decision could be made soon after the latest UCI announcement.

"The UCI announces it has referred Mr Luca Paolini's case to the UCI Anti-Doping Tribunal," the organisation said in a statement.

"The tribunal shall hear Mr Paolini's case and render a judgement in accordance with the Tribunal Procedural Rules. The decision will be published in due course on the UCI website."