UCI rules out ketone ban but warns riders there’s “no reason for them to be used”

The UCI has clarified its position on ketone supplements, confirming it will not impose any restrictions on their use, but also making clear that it “does not recommend” riders take them.

In a statement issued on Monday, cycling’s governing body said that there is “no reason for them to be used”, citing the latest scientific evidence which shows no measurable benefit to either endurance performance or post-exercise recovery.

Ketone drinks gained popularity in the peloton following a 2016 study which suggested potential gains in endurance output. Several WorldTour squads — some even backed by official ketone sponsors — have since experimented with their use, claiming possible recovery or metabolic advantages.

However, the UCI says that follow-up research has failed to replicate those findings. The governing body explained that while earlier studies hinted at benefits related to glycogen resynthesis and increased EPO production, “more recent research has contradicted these earlier findings”, showing no impact on performance or recovery.

The statement continued: “As there is no compelling evidence that ketone supplements enhance performance or recovery, the UCI sees no reason for them to be used. Therefore, the UCI does not recommend the inclusion of such supplements in riders’ nutritional plans.”

Despite some calls from within the sport to outlaw their use entirely, Monday’s clarification confirms that ketones remain legal and unregulated under current anti-doping rules. The recommendation against them is not binding, meaning teams and riders are still free to include the product in their nutritional strategies if they choose.

The Movement for Credible Cycling (MPCC) — an independent body that promotes clean competition — has long discouraged its member teams from using ketones. Several squads within the MPCC, including those focused on transparency and anti-doping reform, continue to abide by that voluntary ban.

The UCI’s announcement follows a multi-year review of available research, which concluded that ketone supplements are safe but ineffective in providing any measurable edge. With this stance, the governing body seems keen to draw a line under the debate, effectively signalling to the peloton that the ketone era may have run its course.