The International Cycling Union (UCI) has issued a statement condemning the use of helicopters after the seventh stage of the Giro d'Italia by some riders. There are a number of teams that use this means of transport for some of their riders so that they can return to the hotel earlier in the stage and have more time to rest.
It is said that the transfers from the stage finish into the team's hotels for the night were a trip of around 2:30 hours, which has led some teams to seek alternative means to further provide their team with important rest during a three-week race. For some years it has been common in high mountain stages like the one we experienced yesterday on the Gran Sasso d'Italia.
So reads the full statement from the UCI, which ensures that measures will be taken to ensure that such practices do not occur in the future:
"The International Cycling Union (UCI) notes that helicopter transport was used by some riders to leave the finish area after the end of the 7th stage of the Giro d'Italia, between Capua and Gran Sasso d'Italia.
This constitutes an advantage that goes against the principles of fair play and the regulatory provisions to ensure equal treatment in the transfer of teams to their hotels. In addition, the use by some riders of helicopter transport for this purpose goes against the principle of reducing the carbon footprint, as set out in the specifications of the UCI WorldTour organizers.
The UCI will take the necessary measures and sanctions to ensure that this practice does not occur in the future.
The UCI strongly condemns this behavior which goes against the principles of fair play and fairness, fundamental values of the sport."
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A founding contributor to CyclingUpToDate since its launch in January 2022, Ruben Silva has played a central role in shaping the site’s editorial direction and long-term growth. Before joining the project, he built his experience through independent blogging at Echelons Hub and by producing race previews for Ciclismo Internacional, developing a strong analytical voice rooted in daily engagement with professional cycling.
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UCI condemns the use of helicopter transport for leaving the stage finish area after the 7th stage of the Giro d’Italia bit.ly/3pFh83r
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