MotoGP | Iannone doping case: Rivola (Aprilia), "In case of a long stop it would be over"

Iannone Aprilia MotoGP World Championship – The first tests of the MotoGP season are now upon us and the Iannone doping affair is still a topic at Aprilia.

To date, although counter-analyses have confirmed the presence of exogenous anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS), no official communication has been received from the FIM.

The defense focuses on the minimum values ​​that emerged and on food contamination from meat, 1150 nanograms per milliliter of urine. At Aprilia the outcome is awaited and in the event of a long disqualification the relationship with Iannone would end early.

The hearing for his appeal will take place on February 4, just three days before the start of the first official pre-season test of the 2020 season scheduled for Sepang.

Statements by Massimo Rivola CEO Aprilia on the Andrea Iannone doping affair

“I would be surprised if he were not penalised, because I think that the Federation (FIM) must comply with the WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) codes – Rivola told Corriere della Sera – If he were to be disqualified for one or two years, it is clear that the partnership would be over, but if he were to get a reprimand or a three-month ban, it would mean that his innocence would be recognized, even in the event of a sanction. Last year at the first test I put him on the scale and told him: 'This isn't right. Aleix Espargaro (his team-mate, ed.) weighs 10 kg less than you. You have to go on a diet, change your workout. By July, he had lost 6,5kg by working hard. Why would he intentionally take anabolics if he had to lose weight?”