Ullrich To Retire?

German media reports that Jan Ullrich is set to retire as a professional cyclist and move into management.

The 33-year-old Ullrich, winner of the Tour de France in 1997, was withdrawn from last year's Tour after being linked with a massive doping investigation in Spain.

Ullrich, who has strongly denied involvement in doping, was suspended and then dropped by his team, T-Mobile. He has not raced since and currently lives in Switzerland.

In an item on his website (www.janullrich.de) he promises to clear up all doubts about his plans at the presentation, which will take place at a Hamburg hotel at 1000 GMT.

In his original invitation to the media he said the announcement would bring "pleasant" news about his career.

German media are reporting he may announce a move to Austrian Team Volksbank as a manager or director of sport, and bring an end to his career as a cyclist.