Wiggins publishes blood profile to prove his innocence

BRADLEY Wiggins has released his blood tests from the Tour de France to dismiss any doubts regarding his better-than-expected fourth place finish.

I'M INNOCENT: Bradley Wiggins releases his blood passport to prove he is clean after impreesive Tour de France

The three-time Olympic track cycling champion surpassed all expectations to finish just off the podium and equal the best result by a Brit in the history of the annual race.

His performance raised a few eyebrows in cycling circles but Wiggins' team Garmin-Slipstream have released his blood profile from 2009 and half of 2008 to expunge any doubt as the Brit's innocence.

"Brad is an exceptionally talented athlete and it was great to see him do so well in the Tour de France," said Slipstream Sports chief exectuve Jonathan Vaughters.

"He's always been an outspoken advocate of clean cycling. He requested that we release his results after the Tour and his decision makes me and the entire team proud."

Wiggins finished fourth, one place behind seven-time winner Lance Armstrong as the maillot jaune went to Alberto Contador.

On Friday, Mikel Astarloza became the first rider of the 2009 Tour to test positive for a banned substance.

The Spaniard, who claimed victory in stage 16 of the race, tested positive for blood-booster EPO.