On Wednesday 2 April cyclist Guilherme Gotardelo Muller, 31, was banned 4 years by the International Cycling Union (UCI) after he broke World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules by using prohibited methods and substances.

The former Brazilian National MTB Champion was preliminarily suspended in November 2023 after the UCI uncovered odd changes in his biological passport between February and April 2022, potentially indicating blood transfusion doping.

Blood transfusions are one of the most effective methods for endurance athletes to increase the number of red blood cells, and thereby significantly enhance performance. Since 1985 they have been by banned by the International Olympic Committee and subsequently WADA.

Gotardelo contested the UCI’s charges, claiming that he suffered significant blood loss from hemorrhoids that caused a drop in biological passport markers. But the UCI did not find enough evidence to support Gotardelo’s claim and suspended him the maximum of 4 years.

Gotardelo is banned from participating in sport in any capacity until 5 November 2027.

Photo Credit: Audax Racing

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