Dave Brailsford's return to the Tour de France has been overshadowed by an anti-doping investigation into a member of his Ineos Grenadiers team. David Rozman, a long-term staff member, left the race after the International Testing Agency (ITA) launched an inquiry into alleged messages he exchanged with convicted doping doctor Mark Schmidt in 2012.
Brailsford, once hailed as a 'not-so-secret weapon' by his colleagues, has refused to comment on the allegations. The team's management knew about the ITA's interest since April and commissioned an external law firm review, but the story broke publicly in June via a German documentary.
The investigation has marred Ineos's modest successes, including two mountain-stage wins by Thymen Arensman. The 25-year-old rider faced questions about his knowledge of the Rozman affair, which dates back to when he was 13. He referred inquiries to management.
Brailsford, who led Team Sky and Ineos to seven Tour titles between 2012 and 2019, has appeared diminished during this year's race. He declined multiple interview requests from the Guardian, speaking only off the record initially and then not at all.
The team's communications on the matter have followed a familiar script, stating they acted responsibly and maintain a zero-tolerance policy. Meanwhile, Brailsford's once-dominant squad now operates in the shadow of Tadej Pogacar, who won his fourth Tour title on Sunday.
