The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) announces that the disciplinary proceedings which had been initiated against Belgian rider Maxim Van Gils in relation to the incident at the finish line of the Japan Cup Criterium on 14 October have been completed.
Video footage of the incident showed Maxim Van Gils hitting another rider on the back of his helmet at the finish line. The rider acknowledged the violation of article 12.4.009 of the UCI Regulations and accepted the sanction proposed by the UCI. Maxim Van Gils will serve a period of suspension of 25 days starting on 20 January 2024.
Upon ratification of the proposed sanction by the UCI Disciplinary Commission, the proceedings were settled by means of an Acceptance of Consequences pursuant to article 12.6.019 of the UCI Regulations.
The safety of riders as well as people in the race convoy and on the roadside is a priority for the UCI.It therefore cannot tolerate conduct that compromises safety at competitions on its International Calendar and reminds all its stakeholders of the need to comply with its Regulations or face disciplinary action.