Doping trial stemming from police raid at 2001 Giro opens

SAN REMO, Italy (AP) -- Ten cyclists and two physical therapists went on trial Wednesday in connection with a drug scandal at the 2001 Giro D'Italia.

The 12 people face charges of doping and sporting fraud, which carry maximum sentences of up to three years, plus fines.

Police found syringes of insulin and steroids when they raided riders' hotel rooms in the early morning of June 6, 2001.

Two of the riders appeared in court Wednesday and sought plea-bargain deals.

Domenico Romano requested a six-month sentence and a euro400 (US$511) fine, while Ermanno Brignoli asked for two months and euro200 (US$255). It was unclear what the plea bargains would be in exchange for.

The 10 others appealed for fast-track trials. They were cyclists Daniele De Paoli, Giuseppe Di Grande, Alberto Elli, Giuliano De Haro Figueras, Dario Frigo, Giampaolo Mondini, Pavel Padrnos and Stefano Zanini; and physical therapists Primo Pregnolato and Javier Francisco Fernandez.

Judge Paolo Luppi adjourned the trial until Feb. 4.