The Astana team of Vincenzo Nibali, the defending champion in the Tour de France, has survived a review of its top-tier racing status ordered after several doping cases.
The International Cycling Union said in Aigle, Switzerland, that its independent licensing panel decided to let the Astana team keep its World Tour status. As a result, the team is ensured entry to all top races, including the Tour de France, where Nibali plans to defend his title.