Hamilton axed by team but insists he'll fight on

Olympic gold medallist Tyler Hamilton has been fired by his cycling team two months after testing positive for blood doping.

The Swiss-based International Cycling Union have received confirmation of Phonak's decision to cancel the American's contract.

But speaking about his case before the judicial process was completed, Hamilton (above) said today: "I know I will be vindicated. My hope is to get this past me as soon as possible.

"We're just waiting to have this hearing, which at the moment they haven't set a date for."

Hamilton tested positive for an illegal blood transfusion at the Spanish Vuelta in September and plans to contest the results at a hearing in Colorado in the New Year. He faces a possible two-year ban if found guilty.

"As for me and my family, we're ready. The sooner the better. I'll be vindicated and I'll be racing in 2005," he said.