Cycling legend Greg Lemond faces lawsuit
( 2001-06-04 09:48 ) (7 )

Three-time Tour de France winner Greg Lemond is facing a lawsuit by Japanese bicycle giant Fuji over his involvement with the Mercury-Viatel team.

Judge Dickinson R. Debevoise has set a preliminary hearing in Federal District Court in New Jersey on June 22 in the suit, in which Fuji alleges "tortuous interference" with their existing contract with the team.

Fuji has been the official bike supplier of the American Mercury team for years.

Problems arose earlier this year after team director John Wordin partnered with Lemond to sign co-sponsor Viatel to build the Mercury-Viatel team.

Part of the Lemond-Viatel deal included a provision for the team to ride Lemond frames, rather than Fuji frames.

Fuji's US branch has sued Greg Lemond Enterprises and John Wordin Sports over the matter.

"We at Fuji have great respect and admiration for the members of the team and the Mercury car company," a statement issued by the company this weekend said. "However, the actions of Wordin Sports, Lemond, and others have had a substantial impact on Fuji, its high brand image, good will, business and reputation."