New Zealand Cyclist Banned After Punching Rival

A cyclist from New Zealand faced a temporary ban after being caught on video punching another rider during a race last month.

This week, the International Cycling Union (UCI) revealed that Kian Watts, who is 24 years old, would be suspended for 25 days due to his actions in the Salverda Bouster van Zwolle race held in the Netherlands on March 7.

According to the UCI’s statement, footage from the March event shows Watts reaching for a fellow competitor and delivering a closed fist punch. The other cyclist has acknowledged the violation of UCI Regulations, specifically Article 12.4.009, and has accepted the proposed punishment.

Reports from Marijn Maas, the rider involved, indicate that she was quite shocked by the incident. Though Watts staggered, he remained standing after the punch and was ultimately disqualified from the race.

Watts, who is currently part of the NSN Development Team, received a one-day suspension from his team and faces a 25-day suspension from the UCI. Additionally, he’s been fined $220 and will have 25 UCI points deducted from his total.

He is expected to be back in competition starting May 2.

The UCI emphasized the importance of sportsmanship, stating that riders, as license holders and members of the cycling community, have responsibilities aimed at upholding the values of the sport.

In summary, such conduct is not merely frowned upon; it undermines the integrity of cycling and goes against the principles of respect and fairness essential to the sport.