New Zealand cyclist Kiaan Watts has received a 25-day suspension from the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) following a physical altercation during a race last month.
Watts, 24, struck Dutch rider Marijn Maas in the head while both were competing near the front of the peloton at the Salverda Bouw Ster van Zwolle event in the Netherlands on March 7. The incident occurred approximately 33 kilometers from the finish line.
Footage of the altercation shows Watts delivering what the UCI described as a "closed fist punch" before gesturing toward Maas, who managed to maintain control of his bicycle despite the impact.
Race officials immediately disqualified Watts from the competition, and his NSN Development Team issued a separate suspension. In a statement, the team expressed deep regret over Watts' actions.
The UCI confirmed that Watts acknowledged violating cycling regulations and accepted the disciplinary measures. His suspension period runs from April 9 through May 2, with credit given for a one-day team ban he served following the incident.
"The UCI issues a reminder that, as holders of UCI licences and members of the cycling community, riders enjoy rights and assume responsibilities aimed at promoting the values of cycling and protecting the integrity of the sport," the governing body stated.
This suspension marks one of the more significant disciplinary actions in recent cycling competitions, highlighting ongoing concerns about rider conduct during high-pressure races.