"We're gathering our file of information together and assembling additional experts, and we expect to release a timetable for our investigation by the end of the week," said Emile Vrijman, assigned to the case by the International Cycling Union.

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The French newspaper L'Equipe claimed in August that traces of the drug were found in a set of Armstrong's backup samples thawed and retested last year.

Even if the report is accurate, the American is not likely to face sanction because the original "A" samples no longer exist.

The World Anti-Doping Agency chief Dick Pound accused former ICU president Hein Verbruggen of leaking documents about the alleged positive tests to L'Equipe. Pound also questioned the union's willingness to fully investigate the allegations.

Verbruggen denied Pound's accusations and claimed WADA was blocking its investigation by withholding information.

Both sides have ordered investigations of the matter.

Vrijman said that although the ICU is funding his investigation, it will be independent.

"In no way will they be able to the report in advance or influence its results," he said. "I have a free hand to conduct the investigation."

Vrijman added that he also expected WADA to cooperate fully.