UCI bans Italian cyclist Nicola Ruffoni for doping

AIGLE, Switzerland -- The International Cycling Union says it has banned Italian cyclist Nicola Ruffoni for four years for doping.

Ruffoni's positive test for a growth-hormone-releasing peptide during training was announced on the eve of the Giro d'Italia in May.

The 26-year-old rider and teammate Stefano Pirazzi, who also tested positive for a GHRP, were fired by Italian team Bardiani CSF.

The UCI previously banned Pirazzi for four years.