The MPCC has expressed concerns in a press release about the excessive increase of medications in the peloton. The advocacy group for credible cycling has been hearing more and more stories from inside the peloton about the misuse of certain substances and is calling on the UCI to take tough action.
The MPCC wants the UCI to crack down harder on medications that fall within the 'grey area.' These are substances or treatments that have not yet been banned by WADA but raise serious ethical questions when used by athletes.
"Cycling needs the UCI to act swiftly and decisively to protect both the sport’s credibility and the health of the peloton, so that no rider feels forced to take questionable products just to keep up," said the MPCC.
'Finishing bottle'
The reason for this call to the UCI now comes from rumors filtering through the peloton. The MPCC points out that the 'finishing bottle' is back in the peloton. "It reportedly contains multiple questionable substances mixed together and handed to riders to prepare them for the finale. In addition, we are confronted with other potential medication misuse. For example, we hear about tapentadol, which is up to ten times stronger than the now-banned tramadol."
"The UCI is currently investigating this specific medication, but do we really have to wait this long again for the results while riders’ health is at risk and crashes could get even worse? The MPCC urges the UCI to take a clear stance on these new medications and/or other specific products (such as ketones). The MPCC stands ready to work closely with the UCI," concludes the movement for credible cycling.
