"I trust in the truth and in sporting justice" - Oier Lazkano speaks for the first time since UCI suspension

Oier Lazkano is now involved in what is currently the most prominent doping case in cycling, albeit being a rather tricky one. The Spaniard hasn't tested positive for any specific substance, and in his first statement issued since the suspension, he defends his innocence.

"I have never used doping substances or prohibited methods. My career has been built on effort, dedication, honesty and daily work," the former Movistar Team and Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe rider said. Following the press release from the UCI, provisionally suspending him, Lazkano has been released from the German team.

From 2022 to 2024, the three years he spent with Movistar, Lazkano on four occasions had abnormal values in his biological passport, which he could not explain. It's not certain what caused these, but he isn't allowed to race for the time being, and his connections within Movistar - his coach at the time being former doper Leonardo Piepoli - make it hard to contest any wrongdoings.

Lazkano is in a difficult situation, not having a certain ban from the sport, but with all likelihood of not finding a contract for next season, whilst his future hangs in a limbo. He is however a believer that he has done nothing wrong and is keen on defending himself.

"I trust in the truth and in sporting justice. I will continue, with determination and transparency, to defend my name and my professional dignity". This is a case that hits Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe but most of all Movistar Team, who have had in the space of a week two of its former riders get suspended. Earlier, Vinicius Rangel was also dealt a 20-month suspension after failing to inform authorities of his whereabouts on three occasions, something that is not allowed at the top level as randomized tests occur all-year long and on whichever locations are deemed appropriate.