The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) announces that the disciplinary proceedings which had been initiated against the rider Kiaan Watts (NZL), in relation to the incident occurred approximately 33.7 kilometres from the finish line of the Salverda Bouw Ster van Zwolle (1.2 ME) have been completed.
Video footage of the incident at the Dutch event on 7 March 2026 showed Kiaan Watts reaching towards another rider and delivering him a closed fist punch.
The rider acknowledged the violation of article 12.4.009 of the UCI Regulations and accepted the sanction proposed by the UCI. Besides the sanctions imposed by the Commissaires’ Panel during the race (cf. the disqualification from the race, the payment of a fine of CHF 200 and the deduction of 25 UCI Points), Kiaan Watts will serve a period of suspension of 25 days, with the one-day suspension imposed on the rider by his team on 8 March 2026 being credited from the period of suspension.
According to the above, Kiaan Watts is suspended from 9 April 2026 to 2 May 2026 (inclusive).
The proceedings were settled by means of an Acceptance of Consequences pursuant to article 12.6.019 of the UCI Regulations.
The UCI issues a reminder that, as holders of UCI licences and members of the cycling community, riders enjoy rights and assume responsibilities aimed at promoting the values of cycling and protecting the integrity of the sport. These rights and responsibilities are set out in the Riders’ Charter of Rights and Responsibilities. Respecting this Charter fosters an environment in which sportsmanship, fairness, and respect prevail.