UCI suspends young rider: Methamphetamine found in young talent

Doping scandal at Junior World Championships

The International Testing Agency for Doping carried out targeted tests on the day of the junior individual time trial, as announced by the UCI. Proskuryakov had finished 41st in the 22.6 km race in Kigali. Three days later he started in the road race, but did not reach the finish line. The sample was taken on the basis of evidence that led to a targeted test.

Methamphetamines act as powerful stimulants on the central nervous system and increase physical performance by improving the oxygen supply to the muscles. The substance reduces the sensation of pain and increases energy levels. At the same time, it harbours considerable health risks due to its high addictive potential and serious side effects such as cardiac arrhythmia, overheating and circulatory failure.

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Rules and procedures

According to the UCI anti-doping regulations, Proskuryakov was immediately provisionally suspended. The rider has the right to request that the B samples be analysed. Methamphetamine is listed on the WADA Prohibited List 2025 under class S6.A as a non-specific stimulant. This category includes various performance-enhancing substances such as cocaine, cathinones and strychnine.

The UCI delegated its anti-doping programme to the International Testing Agency in January 2021, but retains results management and the prosecution of rule violations. The ITA Cycling Unit focuses specifically on all cycling disciplines. A service contract guarantees the independent operation of the ITA.

Aftermath for the young driver

Proskuryakov won the Azerbaijani junior titles in the road race and individual time trial in 2025. He also competed in the junior categories at the UEC European Championships. The UCI will not make any further statements during the ongoing proceedings. The case emphasises the importance of targeted doping controls in the junior categories as well. The co-operation between the UCI and ITA enables professional testing procedures at international championships. Intelligence-led testing is based on indications and suspicions that lead to targeted controls. This method supplements the regular spot checks and increases the probability of detecting doping offences. We must now wait for the final judgement of the UCI, which is likely to end with a ban for Proskuryakov.