The Cyclists’ Alliance (TCA) applauds the announcement (on 17-01-2025) of significant sanctions by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Ethics Committee against two senior officials from Team Velopro-Alphamotorhomes (formerly Proximus-Cyclis).
Sports Director Gert Vervoort has received a five-year suspension from all cycling-related activities, effective from his initial suspension date of July 16, 2024. Team Manager Eddy Van Bunder faces a three-year suspension (which can be reduced to 1.5 years with safeguarding training) and a CHF 5,000 fine.
"These sanctions send a clear message that neither inappropriate behavior nor management negligence will be tolerated in professional cycling," said Judith van Maanen, TCA Ethics Officer. "This outcome demonstrates the UCI's commitment to protecting riders and maintaining high ethical standards in the sport."
TCA is committed to ensuring accountability within the sport. Throughout the case, TCA provided comprehensive support to affected riders including;
- Legal assistance and representation
- Evidence gathering support
- Emotional and mental support
- Statement preparation
- Submitting the case and providing updates to the affected riders throughout the Ethics process to keep them informed
- Ongoing liaison with the UCI Ethics Commission and UCI’s Integrity Manager
TCA continues to offer support services to all rider members facing ethics or legal concerns. Riders can access these services by contacting our Ethics Officer. TCA also encourages riders to use other reporting platforms when appropriate, such as the confidential UCI SpeakUp reporting platform.
To further support riders in advocating for their rights, TCA launched the “It’s Right to Say No” campaign in July 2024 to promote a culture of respect, safety, and empowerment within professional cycling. The campaign focuses on helping female cyclists recognise inappropriate behaviour, address, and report boundary violations within the sport.
About TCA
The Cyclists' Alliance is the independent union for professional women cyclists, dedicated to protecting and advancing riders' rights and interests within the sport.
For more information, contact info@cyclistsalliance.org