A doping suspension like you've never seen before: junior suspended due to very unusual test result at Rwanda Worlds

Doping cases are unfortunately of all times in cycling. The history of cycling is full of them and unfortunately there are also recent examples, such as the suspension of Oier Lazkano. The UCI unfortunately reported another suspension and it was remarkable to say the least.

Back for a moment to the end of September. That is when the World Championships were held in Rwanda. In the junior-category we saw the Azerbaijani rider Artyom Proskuryakov, only eighteen years old. He rode his way to a 41st place in the Worlds time trial, followed a few days later by a DNF in the road race.

It would eventually be after that road race that the rider from Azerbaijan had to go to the doping control. That would be a trip with consequences for Proskuryakov. Indeed, the UCI released a remarkable statement Tuesday night, and it contained bad news for the young rider.

"The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) announces that Azerbaijani rider Artyom Proskuryakov has been notified of an Adverse Analytical Finding for Methamfetamine (D-) and its metabolites* in two samples collected – as a result of intelligence-led-testing – during the 2025 UCI Road World Championships (Men Junior road race) on 23 September 2025," the statements reads.

For those unfamiliar with the word methamphetaimne, 'Crystal meth' may sound more familiar. "It is a stimulant similar in effects to amphetamine (speed), but with a more intense and longer lasting effect than speed. It is usually sold as powder or crystals and is often smoked in a pipe, but can also be inhaled from aluminum foil," Trimbos said.

With that follows a suspension for the youngster. "In accordance with the UCI Anti-Doping Rules, the rider has been provisionally suspended. He has the right to request the analysis of the B samples. The UCI will not comment further while the proceedings are ongoing," the cycling union announced.

The UCI, which has changed doping controls somewhat, further explained. "The UCI delegated its anti-doping programme to the International Testing Agency (ITA) in January 2021, whilst retaining results management and the prosecution of anti-doping rules violations."

"Since then, cycling’s clean sport efforts have been led by the ITA Cycling Unit, which is dedicated specifically to all disciplines of cycling. The UCI and the ITA are bound by a service agreement which guarantees that the ITA operates in an independent manner," it reads.

The UCI also clarifies methamphetamine. "Methamfetamine (D-) and its metabolites are Prohibited Substances listed under class S6.A [Non-Specified Stimulants] of the 2025 Prohibited List which is maintained by the World Anti-Doping Agency and adopted by the UCI."