Millar named in GB Olympics cycling squad

David Millar, 35, has been named as one of the eight riders in the road race squad. The final make-up of the team for the London 2012 event on 28 July will be confirmed later this month.

Millar was handed a two year suspension in 2004 after admitting taking the banned blood booster EPO. He has subsequently become a campaigner against drugs in sport.

The Scot’s selection was made after the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled in April that the British Olympic Association had to rescind its bylaw that banned drugs cheats for life.

If selected, Millar would be tasked with playing a major role helping Mark Cavendish win gold.

The Team GB track squad is headed by Sir Chris Hoy and Victoria Pendleton.

The road squad includes Tour de France contender Bradley Wiggins and defending Olympic champion Nicole Cooke.

Decisions still to make

Team GB aims to beat its tally of eight gold medals secured at the Beijing Olympics.

British Cycling performance director Dave Brailsford said: “We have selected what I believe to be an excellent team going into an Olympic Games and we have a good mix of experienced Olympians alongside young riders who are making their Olympic debut.

“We still have some decisions to make, for example, the road teams will be refined in due course and who will ride in what event on the track will be determined nearer the time.

“Overall, though, the GB Cycling Team has had a strong season across all the disciplines and we are ready to step up again at the Olympics.”