November 6, 2008 – In August 2006, Pat McQuaid, President of the International Cycling Union (UCI), instructed experts to carry out a comprehensive audit of cycling. The objective of the study was to provide a better understanding of the different aspects of doping: the roots, methods, mechanisms and practices.

The study was conducted by means of two distinct, but complementary, approaches:

– A consultancy, AlteRHego, was tasked to carry out in-depth qualitative research in France on top-level cyclists (all branches of the sport and all ages). The researchers compiled the psychological and sociological profiles of the athletes interviewed. This allowed an inventory of the situation to be drawn up and a series of recommendations made to the UCI.

– Under the direction of Professor Sturbois at the University of Louvain, information was gathered from all those involved in professional cycling. This allowed an insight into the current perception of doping within the family of cycling and the solutions envisaged by the players in the sport to prevent the phenomenon of doping among riders.

The final conclusions of the study were presented to National Federation delegates at the UCI Congress held during the UCI Road World Championships in Varese, Italy, on 26 September.

A working group has now been set up. This is responsible for studying the experts’ recommendations with a view to their implementation.

A copy of the study will soon be made available to National Federations to allow common action by the UCI and the Federations.

Please find attached the presentations made during the Congress as well as a summary of the work carried out by AlteRHego.

If you would like to make any comment, please contact Mr Olivier Bañuls olivier.banuls@uci.ch.

“In-Depth Study of Cycling”:

Presentations to Congress :
– AlteRHego presentation
– Presentation of Mr. Sturbois’ study
Summary