SNOWBASIN RESORT, Utah (AP) — Lance Armstrong denies he's receiving training help from a banned Italian doctor or his son, but maintains "those guys are my friends and that's not going to change."

Armstrong spoke Saturday at an off-road triathlon in Utah, criticizing Italian newspaper reports this week that linked the doctor, Michele Ferrari, to a widespread doping ring.

Ferrari, who is banned by Italian cycling, was the seven-time Tour de France winner's adviser for years, but Armstrong cut their professional ties in 2004.

After the paper Corriere della Sera published its report Wednesday, Ferrari denied the latest charges in a statement online that said his son, Stefano, runs a website that dispenses training advice to cyclists and triathletes. The statement said Armstrong is among them.

But Armstrong said he gets no help from the Ferraris. He says he's just friends with the family.

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