Following doping suspension and release from Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe, Lazkano finally breaks the silence

After months of silence, Oier Lazkano has finally spoken out following his suspension by the UCI. The Spaniard was sidelined due to irregularities in his biological passport, prompting his team, Red Bull–BORA-hansgrohe, to terminate his contract. His former squad, Movistar, also felt compelled to respond. Now, Lazkano has issued his first public reaction.

Lazkano turned professional in 2020 with Caja Rural–Seguros RGA and quickly earned a move to Movistar after an impressive start of his career. There, he truly broke through in 2023, finishing second at Dwars door Vlaanderen and claiming the Spanish national road title. His 2024 campaign, however, was even more eye-catching.

Racing in the Spanish champion’s jersey, he dominated the Clásica Jaén and took third at Kuurne–Brussels–Kuurne. The rest of his spring campaign may not have gone entirely to plan, but Lazkano suddenly showed strong climbing form, securing top results at the Critérium du Dauphiné. He didn’t find success at the Tour de France, yet his attacking style left a lasting impression.

That versatility earned him a transfer to Red Bull–BORA-hansgrohe, where he was expected to strengthen the team’s Classics lineup. However, results failed to materialize, and after finishing 117th in Paris–Roubaix, Lazkano disappeared from view. Six months later, the UCI delivered a shocking press release: the Spaniard was provisionally suspended, and his team immediately severed ties.

Lazkano had been completely silent for half a year, but following his provisional suspension, the 25-year-old knew he had to speak up. He maintains his innocence. 'I have never used doping or any banned substances,' he told Eurosport. 'My career has been built on effort, dedication, honesty, and daily hard work.'

Although Lazkano never tested positive, his biological values were deemed suspicious — and, according to experts, impossible to explain through normal physiological factors. As a result, the UCI imposed a provisional ban. 'I trust in the truth and in sporting justice,' said a hopeful Lazkano. 'With determination and transparency, I will continue to defend my name and my professional integrity.'

However, according to El País, there may be more to the story. Back in April, authorities allegedly confiscated his phone and laptop, and Lazkano is said to have worked with Leonardo Piepoli, the former Italian rider who was himself involved in doping scandals. The final verdict from the UCI is still pending.

According to Spanish newspaper EL País, however, there is more to the story. Back in April, his phone laptop would have been taken. Lazkano allegedly collaborated with Leonardo Piepoli, the former Italian cyclist who used doping in the past. The UCI's final verdict is awaited.