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Disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong's plans to ride this year's Tour de France route for charity have been branded "inappropriate and disrespectful" by the president of the International Cycling Union (UCI).
Armstrong, who was stripped of his seven Tour de France victories after admitting systematic doping offences, has been approached by former England footballer Geoff Thomas to ride the route one day before the official peloton begins its gruelling 21-day challenge in July.
Thomas, who is aiming to raise £1million in the fight against blood cancer, wants the American to get involved with the challenge and stated that the idea has been well received.
However, UCI chief Brian Cookson believes Armstrong should not follow through with the plans.
Speaking at the Sport Industry Breakfast Club in London, he said: "I'm sure that Geoff Thomas means well, but frankly I think that's completely inappropriate and disrespectful to the Tour, disrespectful to the current riders, and disrespectful to the UCI and the anti-doping community.
"I think Lance would be well-advised not to take part in that."
Armstrong's battle to beat cancer inspired Thomas to do likewise over a decade ago and it was put to Cookson that perhaps the American should be cut some slack because his profile could draw big attention and help raise funds.
"I'm not critical of people trying to raise funds for charity, let's be clear," he added.
"But I think maybe Lance could find a better way of continuing his fundraising efforts than this.
"Lance Armstrong can ride his bike around France as often as he likes, it's got nothing to do with me or the UCI."