New Zealand rider Watts banned for mid-race punch

Cycling’s global governing body has imposed a 25-day ban on New Zealand cyclist Kiaan Watts following an incident during a race in the Netherlands. The penalty comes after Watts punched Dutch rider Marijn Maas in the head while both were leading the peloton at the Salverda Bouw Ster van Zwolle on 7 March.

The altercation occurred with 33km remaining in the race, as Watts struck Maas after the pair contested for position. He later raised his arm in protest towards Maas, who experienced a brief moment of instability but managed to stay on his bike. The punch was captured on video, resulting in Watts’s immediate disqualification and suspension by his NSN Development Team.

UCI statement on the ruling

The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) emphasized that Watts acknowledged the “closed fist punch” as a rule violation and has accepted the disciplinary action. His suspension, effective from 9 April to 2 May, incorporates a one-day ban for the Dorpenomloop Rucphen race on 8 March, which has been subtracted from the total period.

The UCI reiterated that athletes with UCI licenses are responsible for upholding the sport’s values and integrity, balancing their rights with the expectations of the cycling community.