Cycling-Italy's anti-doping body requests Basso suspension

MILAN, May 14 (Reuters) Italy's anti-doping body asked today for a precautionary suspension of cyclist Ivan Basso after the 2006 Giro D'Italia champion admitted to attempted doping last week.

The Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) said on its website (www.coni.it) that it had made the request to the disciplinary commission of the Italian National Cycling Federation but gave no indication of the possible length of suspension.

Pat McQuaid, president of world governing body UCI, said last week that Basso did not deserve a reduced ban for admitting his involvement in the Spanish Operation Puerto doping scandal.

Italian media has speculated that Basso, without a team after quitting the Discovery Channel outfit last month, may hope to obtain a reduction on a potential two-year ban because of his admission.

Basso has denied using illegal substances or blood transfusions.

CONI said it had also asked for the suspension of fellow Italian rider Michele Scarponi, who was also involved in the scandal.

REUTERS TB PM2143