In an official
statement the Astana team announced the retirement of Eddy Mazzoleni by saying: "Because of the disciplinary
procedure from the CONI antidoping prosecutor and also because he doesn’t want his team to get into trouble, Eddy Mazzoleni
(34) decided to put a term to his sport carreer with immediate effect. By respect for his team-mates but also for his family,
Eddy Mazzoleni took his decision alone without any pressure from anyone. He would like also to thank all the team, riders
and staff, who always believed in him and supported him during these difficult times." The statement concluded with: "The
Astana Cycling Team’s management would like to thank Eddy Mazzoleni for his honest attitude. It assures him of his support
and wish him all the best for his future."
But a few hours later Mazzoleni denied that he will retire. Mazzoleni told Italian newsagency ANSA: "Its not true that
I will retire. I only decided to terminate my contract with Astana." Mazzoleni said that he took his decision to avoid damage
to the team and his teammates. On Friday Mazzoleni refüsed to give evidence to the anti-doping committee of the Italian Olympic
Committee (CONI) about his contacts with doctor Carlo Santuccione.