Team Sky sponsor sends message of support to team amid UKAD investigation

Graham McWilliam, deputy head of Sky News, has told Team Sky they still have the corporation's full support amid a string of controversies to hit the British WorldTour team.

Team Sky are subject to a UK Anti-Doping investigation in relation to a medical package delivered to a riders at the end of the 2011 Critérium du Dauphiné and has faced scrutiny over its use of Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs) for riders such as Sir Bradley Wiggins, to use banned substances to treat illnesses and allergies.

Last week, the Daily Mail revealed that Team Sky and Sir Dave Brailsford were set to be questioned regarding the package delivered to the Dauphiné by then British Cycling women's coach Simon Cope, with UKAD meeting with BC officials at the National Cycling Centre on Friday.

McWilliam, who is chairman of the Team Sky board, tweeted a message that he sent to the team, which confirmed the corporation's trust in the team's actions.

"Keep your feet firmly on the ground and stay focused on what's important," the message read. "For Team Sky that's racing and winning, the right way. That's what we've done from the start and that's what we'll continue to do in the future.

"I can assure you of Sky's full and continued support. There is no equivocation on our part. We trust you, we believe in you and we remain as excited about this sport as ever."

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In a statement following the claims in the Daily Mail, Team Sky said: "We take these issues seriously and will cooperate fully with UKAD. We hope it can be completed as thoroughly and quickly as possible."

British Cycling confirmed the ongoing UKAD operation but said it was unable to comment further.