A former professional cyclist has been disqualified for using unauthorized technology during the first stage of the Tour of Magnificent Chinha.
Willie Smit, a 33-year-old South African, was racing with the Chinese Antamentec team in an eight-stage event sanctioned by the International Cycling Union (UCI).
After being expelled for wearing smart glasses with video recording capabilities, Smit expressed his frustration on X.
He stated, “Today I was disqualified for the first time in my 14-year cycling career because I wore glasses that recorded video.”
He mentioned that he was unaware of a new rule implemented in April that prohibited such devices.
The specific rule, UCI regulation 1.3.006 bis, permits riders to use image capture devices but only if they are fixed to the bike, not worn by the rider, unless other regulations allow it.
Devices like video recording glasses are deemed illegal and can lead to penalties, including disqualification.
Consequently, Smit was banned from the first stage of the race, which covered 120.6 kilometers in Xining.
In his post, Smit suggested that a simple warning or a fine could have sufficed instead of a disqualification.
He also expressed confusion over what cycling authorities define as contraband. “It’s perplexing that you can vlog in the Tour de France with a handheld camera, yet wearing glasses that record puts you out of the race,” he remarked.
To support his argument, Smit shared a video captured by his glasses alongside footage from fellow cyclist Toms Sukjinshu.
He noted, “This is the video that got me disqualified, while the other video clearly shows you’re allowed.” However, experts clarified that Sukjinshu used a legal camera attached to his bike, unlike Smit’s device.
The Oakley Vanguard glasses that resulted in Smit’s disqualification have various features, including voice commands and the ability to capture images and videos.
Despite their capabilities, Smit insisted that he didn’t know the regulations when he posted the footage. “If I had been aware, I wouldn’t have shared it on social media. I’ll just take this on the chin,” he said.
But he continued to voice his frustration, emphasizing that the glasses do not function with AI unless connected to a mobile device.
Smit highlighted that while riding, using handheld cameras might be riskier than having a camera integrated into smart glasses.
Reactions to his disqualification have been mixed. Some have sympathized with him, while others have criticized his actions.
One person remarked, “Anyone wearing these glasses is just asking for trouble,” while another said, “It’s ridiculous to get kicked out of such a prestigious race for such a mistake.”
Smit is not alone in facing disqualifications this year for unusual reasons; others have been penalized for being underweight, having inappropriate handlebars, or wearing unsuitable clothing.
