The fate and legacy of global cycling icon Lance Armstrong could take a decisive turn when the International Cycling Union (UCI) meets to decide on the American’s spectacular fall from grace here today.

For some observers, the credibility of the sport’s governing body, the UCI, may also be on the line. Armstrong’s reputation as the cancer survivor who claimed a record seven consecutive Tour de France victories is now in tatters after he was handed a life ban by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).