The World Cycling Union has imposed a 20-month ban on Vinícius Rangel for multiple offences against the obligation to register. This is according to a press release from the world governing body. The ban applies from 27 August 2025 until 26 April 2027 and is based on three documented whereabouts violations that took place over a period of twelve months.
20-month ban for Vinícius Rangel
These offences constitute a serious rule violation under the World Anti-Doping Code, as they hinder the effective implementation of doping controls. The athlete concerned must report their whereabouts accurately in order to be available for unannounced testing at any time. Three missed or false reports within one year automatically lead to an anti-doping rule violation. It is not clear from the UCI communication which offences against the reporting obligation are specifically involved. The Brazilian cannot take part in any official cycling events during this period.
Whereabouts system as a cornerstone
The Whereabouts system obliges athletes in the registered test pool to provide precise details of their whereabouts. Riders must define a one-hour period each day during which they are available for unannounced tests. These notifications are made via the World Anti-Doping Agency's Anti-Doping Administration Management System (ADAMS). Violations result from missed tests, false information or late updates of whereabouts data. The system enables effective out-of-competition testing, which is an essential part of the modern fight against doping. The responsibility for correct and up-to-date reports lies entirely with the athlete. Three violations within twelve months are considered an anti-doping rule violation and result in a ban of up to two years.
Vinícius Rangel under contract with Movistar for two years
Vinícius Rangel was under contract with Movistar from 2022 to mid-2024. In 2022, he secured the jersey of the Brazilian road champion. After leaving the WorldTour team, the 24-year-old rode for the Brazilian Continental team Swift Pro Cycling this year and won a stage of the Tour of Uruguay.
