December 12, 2006 – Judge Antonio Serrano began hearing evidence in the Spanish doping scandal surrounding Dr. Eufemiano Fuentes. Over 50 cyclists are allegedly involved and both Jan Ullrich and Ivan Basso are expected to be called to give evidence, although it’s not likely they will have to make any statements in Spain according to a report on playfuls.com. Spanish riders Jesus Hernandez and Alberto Contador were heard as witnesses and both claimed their innocence.

As doping is not a criminal offence under Spanish law, Operacion Puerto focuses on Fuentes and his alleged accomplices rather than on any pro cyclists allegedly involved.

Serrano repeated that the use any evidence from secret filming or bugged conversations was not permitted. It’s uncertain if any sport federations will attempt to impose any doping bans on any of the cyclists involved as a result of the investigation.