MADRID, Nov. 2 (Xinhua) -- Spanish cyclist Oier Lazkano insists that he is innocent of doping in a communique issued in the wake of the provisional ban he was given on Thursday by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) for alleged irregularities in his Athlete Biological Passport.
The 25-year-old former road race champion has also been provisionally suspended by his Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe team, although the irregularities date from when he was riding with the Spanish Movistar team between 2022 and 2024.
Lazkano responded to the allegations on Sunday with a statement in which he explained that "on October 30, 2025, I received official notification from the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). I want to make something absolutely clear: I have never used doping substances or prohibited methods."
"I have always respected the rules of cycling and the fundamental values of clean sport. My career, built with effort and dedication, is based on honesty, integrity, and daily work."
"I am a clean athlete and a person of integrity" continued Lazkano, who said he would defend his reputation "and do everything necessary to prove my complete innocence and my total lack of involvement in any illicit conduct."
Lazkano explained he had instructed his "medical-legal team to take all necessary actions to protect my rights and demonstrate my integrity."
"I trust in the truth and in sporting justice," he wrote. ■
