Lance Armstrong Stripped Of 2000 Olympic Bronze Medal [Video]

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced that Lance Armstrong has been stripped of his 2000 bronze medal. Although the revocation was discussed in December, the decision was delayed until last night.

The IOC informed Armstrong last night via a written request that he return the medal. The committee had reportedly made their decision in December but were waiting for Armstrong to file an appeal to the loss of his seven Tour de France titles. As reported by ESPN, the deadline for the appeal has passed.

A highly anticipated interview with Oprah Winfrey in which Armstrong reportedly admitted to “doping” is set to air tonight and tomorrow night. The interview, which will air on Oprah’s OWN network, will be the first time Armstrong has admitted to using performance enhancing drugs. He vehemently denied the accusations for years.

The IOC’s decision to strip Armstrong of his 2000 bronze medal reportedly had nothing to do with his admission on Oprah. The committee began a disciplinary case last November. The IOC opened the case after receiving a report from a US Anti-Doping Agency, who called the use of performance enhancing among Armstrong and his teammates “the most sophisticated doping program in sports.”

As reported by USA Today, the 2000 bronze medal that was stripped from Armstrong will not be reallocated:

“The IOC will not reallocate Armstrong’s bronze medal, just as the UCI decided not to declare any winners for the Tour titles once held by the American. Spanish rider Abraham Olano Manzano, who finished fourth in Sydney, will not be upgraded and the bronze medal placing will be left vacant in Olympic records.”