Exploring the Evolution of Motor Doping in Cycling
Allegations and accusations of mechanical doping in cycling originated in 2010 during the Tour of Flanders when Fabian Cancellara attacked the steep Kapelmuur with extraordinary strength. This story will explore the history of using mechanical doping in leading races.
Hesjedal's crash drew criticism
In 2014, during the Vuelta a España, Ryder Hesjedal faced controversy after a deadly crash on Stage 7. The video footage showed the rear wheel of his bicycle spinning after falling to the ground.
Testing started following public pressure
Ryder Hesjedal's incident prompted public speculation, making the UCI inspect the matter to find out if any motor was hidden in his bike. Despite scrutiny, no motor was found in Hesjedal's bike, and from the following spring, bike inspection became mandatory.
The French and Italian exposes
In 2016, the French television show Stade 2 claimed mechanical doping is much more prevalent than previously presumed. Attracting the attention of UCI, they exposed the matter with a thermal camera disguised as a standard video camera. However, The testing process was later upgraded by implementing iPads.
The Sepp Kuss accusation
The years that followed displayed a repeating pattern of events. One notable instance was the Sepp Kuss accusation. Jerome Pineau raised concerns about mechanical doping, pointing to Kuss’s ten-kilometer-per-hour speed. The UCI has implemented various testing methods at significant races like the UCI WorldTour in response to such incidents.
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