On November 30th the Phonak Cycling team (sponsored by Phonak Hearing Systems) was denied entry to the ProTour by the Union Cycliste International.
The team was dealt a serious blow when several members tested positive for banned substances and the highest profile cyclist Tyler Hamilton was accused of doping. The state of affairs for this team does not breed confidence for the sport, however, testing that shows results is always positive.
The ProTour includes the Giro d’Italia, Vuelta a Espana, and Tour de France; thus being the most important tour in the cycling world.
As of right now there are 19 teams registered for the 2005 season including Team Discovery Channel which employs Lance Armstrong as well as some of the best supporting riders in the world.