Voet had affirmed on Wednesday, via his lawyer, his intention to be heard in front of the disciplinary committee to correct, in particular, some distorted perceptions that had already been published. He also claimed it was a whitewash because it had no intention of banning any of the French Festina riders. Creatine - the little white pill has become the latest controversy in sport and doping. There are claims that two US wrestlers died from using it. For the record, it is currently not on the IOC list of banned substances.
Creatine is a performance-enhancing amino acid which is produced by the liver and kidneys.
It is legally available worldwide in tablet or powder form, in addition to occuring in meat-diets. Many sportspersons are using it - football, rowing, athletics, cycling and more. Leading sportspersons make money endorsing it as a valid training food. The controversy stems from the fact that increasing evidence is mounting that it is associated with liver and kidney failure. In large proportions, the substance is clearly dangerous.