Paolo Tiralongo has asked his lawyer to take legal action against the Italian daily La Repubblica due to a story published last Sunday.

Paolo Tiralongo claims that the story damages his image and reputation as it links him to doctor Eufemiano Fuentes.

In a press release issued by his representatives, Paolo Tiralongo categorically denies that he has had any relationship or contact with Dr. Fuentes or used blood transfusions.

Tiralongo is accused of freuqenting the doctor by another rider who does not claim that he has made use of blood transfusions.

Because of that, Tiralongo regards the news as defamatory and says that it causes irreparable harm to his reputation. Therefor he has asked his lawyers to sue La Repubblica.