The Italian Anti-Doping Tribunal today sentenced Italian cyclist Riccardo Ricco to a 12 year ban from professional cycling as a result of Ricco's 2nd doping offense. Additionally, Ricco was ordered to pay 20,000 Euro in combined fines and legal fees.

Ricco hasn't raced in pro races since February 2011 where he was hospitalized after becoming ill. According to the doctor who treated Ricco, the illness was caused by injection of Ricco's own blood into his body. The blood was allegedly stored in Ricco's own refrigerator. At this point in time Ricco was part of the Vacansoleil-DCM team, which later fired him.

In 2008 Ricco tested non-negative in the Tour de France while riding for Saunier Duval. At that point in time Ricco was using the CERA blood booster.

The 12 year ban was recommended and requested by the Italian Olympic Committee in order to protect Ricco's personal health.