Pro-cycling has had its fair share of doping charges over the years. Co-incidentally, these incidents have been rather periodical, and every time they emerge from the bushes, they do so with the intention of unleashing havoc among championship teams. Of course, true professionals of the sport have always been vocal against it. Recently, a a renowned cyclist from the Jumbo-Visma camp, Jonas Vingegaard voiced his opinion on the same.  

The 25-year-old- DaneDanish cycling icon unveiled a surprising detail from his past after German rider Michel Hessmann’s suspension stirred up his camp.

Prohibited substances shadow cycling feats 

As a two-time winner of the prestigious Tour de France championships, Vingegaard expressed his take on the current controversies prevailing in his team’s results. Reportedly, after requests from a German newspaper, the National German Anti-Doping Agency published their vivid evaluation, confirming the regrettable act. As per records, Hessmann tested positive for taking diuretic medication, as analyzed from his A sample on June 14. 

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While the violation was upheld by scrutinizing his second test results, Hessmann’s B sample surprisingly supported the previous examination, solidifying his suspension. Disheartened by the ongoing scandals in cycling races, Vingegaard narrated his perception, stating, “I think it is a shame that we are suffering from what happened 20-30 years ago.” For a triumphant team that won all three Grand Tours hosted this year, this stinging situation highlighted a tinge of despair among fans and players alike. 

Doping tests depict added complexities 

Subsequently, Vingegaard also addressed his colleague’s predicament after testing positive, remarking on the generalized fear of inadvertently ingesting banned substances. While the ongoing case and its implications for the sport added a layer of uncertainty, the cycling professional mentioned his 2016 encounter with doping tests. As he mentioned missing a doping test, the pro cyclist elaborated on the circumstances surrounding this scenario. 

Recounting the moment, he conveyed being unaware of the test call, remarking, “I had left my mobile phone in the kitchen”, adding, “And then our doorbell didn’t work.” He further mentioned how the authorities tried to reach him, but the events were not in favor. This oversight led to an inability when Vinggaard was unable to conduct the test, admitting it was not a cool thing to happen. Gladly, the situation was rectified when the test was conducted two days later. 

Jonas Vingegaard, who has undergone a staggering 60-70 tests in the 2023 season alone, acknowledged the weight of such a missed test hanging over him. Effectively, this incident underscored the meticulousness demanded by cycling tournaments, where riders must provide pre-planned time slots for testing availability. Expressing skepticism about claims of constant negativity in test results, he also cautioned players against complacency, hinting at the possibility of deceit despite stringent testing.

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