Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) added cyclist Delio Fernandez Cruz of Spain to the Provisionally Suspended Anti-Doping list last week. Suspending him for alleged “Use of Prohibited Methods and/or Prohibited Substances,” without providing details.

Fernandez, a 39 year-old cyclist with almost two decades of racing experience, was most recently team leader and mentor for AP Hotels & Resorts-Tavira-SC Farense, a pro-am development team of 20-something year olds that is part of Clube Ciclismo Tavira in Portugal.

Procyclingstats lists Fernandez as “Retired” as of April 2 2025, with his last race 16 March at Classica de Santo Thyrso, where he finished 28th and was the best placed rider from the team.

On 2 April Fernandez unexpectedly posted to Facebook, “I never thought that the 7-year-old who did gymkhanas would get to go to professional cycling for 18 years. And it’s time to stop… I want to thank all the support received during this time, especially the family, who accompanied me in the good and bad times and without them this wide path would not be possible.”

The next day Club Ciclismo Tavira posted the following via Facebook: “Thank you Delio Fernández! Our Delio bids farewell to the professional squad, ending a career of dedication, effort and unforgettable achievements. Since 2022, we have had the privilege of counting on your experience, leadership and passion for cycling.”

Provisionally suspended athletes, like Fernandez, are presumed innocent until an anti-doping court renders a final verdict, but in the meantime they are not allowed to participate in sport in any capacity.

Photo Credit: Facebook/TaviraGranfondo

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