French cyclist Taillefer admits to doping

French cyclist Fabien Taillefer has admitted he took performance-enhancing drugs after being charged as part of an investigation into an alleged doping ring.

The Former winner of the junior Paris-Roubaix race has been accused of selling, using and keeping banned substances.

Taillefer told the directvelo.com website he started to dope after turning professional in 2009 when he found out he was struggling to follow the best rider's pace.

The 21-year-old Taillefer said "with the help of some people I started to take drugs. I forgot the most important things for a cyclist, training, nutrition, and sleep. I replaced these with drugs."

Taillefer however said he quit doping this season after realizing he could perform well without taking drugs.

Taillefer added he tested negative for drugs while in police custody.