UCI expected to approve the use of controversial ketones as their impact is deemed marginal

Ketones have spent a long time in the grey zone as a supplement whose use was neither approved nor prohibited by the cycling's governing body UCI. But after many years of debates, the ruling is to be carried out this year.

According to Cycling Weekly, a four-year study backed by UCI already found their answers as to whether the use of ketones should be prohibited. And based on the British outlet's information, the study concluded that ketones are safe and do not offer a significant performance enhancement to users, hence their use will be blessed.

Official communication on the matter can be expected during the board meeting during the 2025 World Championships in Kigali, Rwanda.

In 2021, the UCI announced a scientific review into the supplement as part of the governing body’s "commitment to an honest and credible sport". At the same time, they recommended riders to "refrain from using this substance". At least until the research is concluded.

At last year’s Tour de France, the UCI’s president David Lappartient said: "The study we funded is progressing, but it is a scientific study, with researchers from international laboratories, publication processes, so it takes time," he said. "We should have the results next year."  

In the meantime, French star riders Romain Bardet and Guillaume Martin have repeatedly called for ketones to be prohibited, while the Movement for Credible Cycling (MPPC) recommends that its members do not use the supplement.  

Ketones are a type of acid produced by the liver when the body burns fat for energy instead of glucose (sugar). This typically happens when there's not enough glucose available, such as during fasting, prolonged exercise, or when carbohydrate intake is low. They are often used to enhance energy levels, suppress appetite, and potentially improve physical performance. Some athletes use them for post-exercise recovery.

It is to be noted that the cost-benefit ratio has been found to be quite insignificant and for an average user, there are more effective methods to achieve comparable results.