Isn't there some kind of best evidence rule that applies in these situations.
The only evidence that should be admissible are the tests. The whole point of their existence is to determine whether someone is cheating. If you pass the tests, then by virtue of the rules of the applicable sport, you haven't cheated. No other evidence matters. Even if they had videotape of Armstrong doping himself, presumably it wouldn't matter because he passed the doping tests.
I find your comments to be the clearest and best on this thread. The tesare just be THE standard, period. If now the USADA lets hearsay over rule their tests, testing has been made a mockery.
If the tests can’t show the correct result of possible doping, the tests need to be changed until such time as they are reliable. Verbal sniping to get rid of heroes’ achievement should be banned from any recognized (thereby ENCOURAGED) position in any sport.
Furthermore, if a championship is removed, no reliance can be placed on the previous #2’s tests. To apply the same standard, all of his past associates will have to be given a chance to take a swipe at the athlete! WHAT A REDICULOUS CAN OF WORMS!
Any parallel sports bodies that shadow the legal system should also be wiped out entirely! (read: NCAA sanctions)
HF