For the second time in less than a month the Japanese Keirin Association (JKA) has uncovered doping within their ranks, raising serious questions about the integrity of Japan’s popular gambling pastime – betting on Keirin racers.

On Tuesday JKA banned cyclist Yukimika Noguchi after she tested positive in-competition on 7 February for a mixture of three banned Testosterone increasing drugs: Nandrolone, Clomifen and Tomoxifen.

The 32 year-old class 1 Keiren racer with over 1000 race starts is now banned from competing 1 April through 1 July 2025, the maximum sanction currently allowed by JKA.

Going forward though, JKA plans to significantly increase dope testing and sanctions to address the spate of recent doping incidents.

JKA Chairman Hiroshi Kido said, “It is extremely unfortunate that a banned substance was detected again in the doping test from the player this time. In addition, this kind of situation will lead to the loss of trust from customers and bicycle racing parties, and we sincerely apologize. We will promptly educate players, strengthen the inspection system, strengthen sanctions against violators, and take effective concrete measures, and do our best to fight against anti-doping.”

Specifically, anti-doping tests will no longer be administered randomly, but from now on will be performed at all JKA races. In addition, riders found guilty of doping violations may be banned up to 1 year, rather than the current 3 month maximum.

Photo Credit: Koichi Kitayama

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