Vuelta a Espana champion firmly denies involvement in disappearance and murder of four individuals

Colombian cycling icon Lucho Herrera, winner of the 1987 Vuelta a Espana and one of the sport’s most revered climbing specialists, has firmly denied allegations linking him to a 2002 case involving the disappearance and murder of four individuals.

The accusations, which surfaced in proceedings before the Bogotá Prosecutor’s Office, have drawn significant attention in Colombia, where Herrera remains a celebrated national figure. His lawyer, Hernando Herrera (no relation), has dismissed the claims as “slanderous accusations, emotional blackmail, and attempted extortion.”

“Lucho Herrera is still a national hero and a legend of Colombian sport,” his lawyer told Spanish news agency EFE. “He is completely innocent and has no connection to the events in question. It’s up to the Prosecutor’s Office to uncover the truth.”

In a personal statement released through his legal team, Herrera struck a composed yet passionate tone, defending his integrity and distancing himself from the serious charges.

“I face this situation with the calm that comes from speaking the truth,” Herrera said. “What God, my country, and my people have given me has always been enough — I’ve never strayed down the dangerous, rocky path of greed, much less harmed the lives or property of ordinary people.”

He also took aim at media sensationalism, warning against irresponsible reporting: “Truth is the most valuable thing a journalist can hold — but when it’s handled lightly, rushed for headlines, or pursued through shortcuts, it can lead down dangerous slopes. Today, just as I did in the most painful and demanding climbs of my racing days, I face this challenge with the same strength — and with the truth on my side.”