Paris Judge Authorizes Night-Time Doping Tests for Tour Leaders Pogacar and Vingegaard
A Paris judge has authorized night-time doping tests for Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard during the Tour de France. The International Testing Agency (ITA) petitioned to conduct these unusual overnight tests between July 18 and 19, despite normal hours being from 6am to 11pm.
The ITA cited 'serious suspicions' that the riders may be involved in doping activities as the reason for conducting non-routine checks. Vingegaard was tested at 2am on Sunday by the ITA while Pogacar’s test was given at 5am, leading both to lose sleep and affect their performance.
The decision caused widespread condemnation in the cycling community. Leading riders and team staff expressed their dissatisfaction with disrupting athletes’ rest and recovery.According to reporting by The Guardian - Sport.
Paris Judge Authorizes Night-Time Doping Tests for Tour Leaders Pogacar and Vingegaard
The incident isn't the first of its kind as it's believed other teams, including Pogacar’s UAE Team Emirates XRG and Vingegaard’s Visma Lease-a-Bike, have also been subject to nocturnal testing this year.
Under UCI regulations, night-time tests can only be conducted if there are serious suspicions of doping activities. A Paris judge has the jurisdiction to rule on such requests. The ITA is conscious that testing at these times may cause disruption but has a responsibility for ensuring the effectiveness and integrity of anti-doping programs.How Are Night-Time Tests Authorized?
A Paris judge authorised unexpected night-time doping tests for Tour de France leaders Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard on July 18-19. The move was due to 'serious suspicions' of doping activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Were Pogacar and Vingegaard Tested So Late in the Night?
The ITA petitioned for tests as there were ‘serious suspicions’ that the riders may be involved in doping. The normal time window is from 6am to 11pm, but a Paris judge authorised these out-of-hours checks.
Is This the First Time Such Tests Occurred During the Tour?
Yes, it's believed other teams have also been subjected to night-time testing. While the ITA did not specify numbers, it confirmed that other teams are also facing early morning and late-night tests this year.