"Reasons completely beyond my control" - Former Movistar rider blames language barrier after being handed ban by UCI for Anti-Doping Rule Violation

A fresh doping scandal has surfaced in cycling as October draws to a close — a stark reminder that, despite years of reform, the sport still cannot completely shake off its darker past. The shadow of the Lance Armstrong era has long since lifted, yet the fight for credibility continues. The latest rider to be sanctioned is former Movistar Team professional Vinicius Rangel.

The 24-year-old Brazilian was handed a two-year suspension by the UCI on 28 October, after committing three whereabouts failures within a twelve-month period. In line with the World Anti-Doping Code, that constitutes a violation even without a positive test. Rangel had raced in 2025 for Swift Pro Cycling, following a three-year spell at Movistar between 2022 and 2024.

Under anti-doping regulations, riders are required to keep their whereabouts updated at all times for potential out-of-competition testing. Rangel insists that the issue stemmed not from evasion, but from a communication breakdown with the UCI. “There was a failure in communication with the UCI, partly because of the language barrier, as they only accept French and English,” he explained. “For reasons completely beyond my control, and because of difficulties with the language and understanding a system I’m still learning to navigate, I ended up being penalised by the UCI for whereabouts failures.”

Rangel — crowned Brazilian national champion in 2022 — said he has always tried to uphold fair play throughout his career. “I’ve always sought to follow the rules, honour the sport and compete fairly, with the same respect and dedication that have guided me since the beginning of my career. But I admit I made mistakes in the procedures — mistakes that have taught me a lot. I’ve learned the importance of paying attention to every detail, even outside competition.”

Rangel has accepted his suspension, which will keep him out of competition until April 2027, and says he intends to use the time away to rebuild.

“This period away from racing will be a time for learning, strengthening and growth. I’ll come back stronger, better prepared and even more committed to contributing to the cleanliness, transparency and improvement of cycling. Sport is about winning, but also about learning lessons — and this is one of the most important of my life.”