BY OSABUOHIEN VIVIAN-ROSE
New Zealand cyclist Kiaan Watts has received a 25-day suspension from the sport’s governing body after striking another rider during a race held last month.
The 24-year-old was involved in an incident with Dutch cyclist Marijn Maas while both riders were leading the pack with about 33 kilometers remaining at the Salverda Bouw Ster van Zwolle race in the Netherlands on March 7.
During the confrontation, Watts hit Maas on the head and gestured in frustration afterward. Despite briefly losing balance, Maas managed to stay upright and continue the race.
Officials quickly disqualified Watts, and his team, NSN Development Team, also imposed a suspension. The incident, captured on camera, led to further disciplinary action by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).
In its statement, the UCI confirmed that Watts admitted his actions breached the rules and accepted the penalty. His suspension runs from April 9 to May 2, taking into account an earlier one-day team ban already served.
The governing body emphasized the importance of professionalism and respect among riders, reminding all licensed cyclists of their responsibility to uphold the sport’s values and integrity.
