Gerry Ryan Elected as UCI President, Prioritizing Global Development, Anti-Doping, and Safety in All Cycling Disciplines
In a historic shift for international cycling governance, Gerry Ryan has been elected the next President of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), succeeding David Lappartient. Known for his strong background in sports management and advocacy for ethical standards in athletics, Ryan’s election signals a renewed focus on global development, stringent anti-doping efforts, and safety initiatives across all cycling disciplines.
Ryan, who has been a prominent figure in the cycling world and instrumental in supporting professional cycling through his sponsorship and leadership roles, has committed to expanding UCI’s reach into developing regions. His vision centers around creating accessible pathways for emerging athletes globally, with a particular emphasis on expanding grassroots cycling programs in underrepresented areas. “Cycling has the power to unite, inspire, and empower communities,” Ryan stated in his inaugural speech. “Under my leadership, UCI will prioritize creating opportunities for athletes across all demographics and regions.”
One of the key components of Ryan’s platform is bolstering anti-doping measures to preserve the integrity of the sport. A long-standing advocate for fair competition, Ryan has pledged to enhance testing protocols, strengthen the UCI’s partnerships with leading anti-doping organizations, and improve transparency around violations. “We must remain vigilant in our fight against doping; athletes and fans deserve a clean sport,” he emphasized.
Safety has also emerged as a top priority for Ryan, with plans to introduce comprehensive safety protocols for riders across all levels, including amateur, professional, and competitive cycling. His strategies involve reviewing race conditions, improving equipment standards, and mandating specific training for race organizers to minimize risks during events. This focus on safety aligns with UCI’s recent initiatives to reduce accidents and enhance the well-being of all cyclists. Ryan underscored the need for innovative solutions, announcing the formation of a UCI task force dedicated to exploring new safety technologies and best practices.
As Ryan assumes the role of UCI President, he brings a progressive approach that has already garnered widespread support among national cycling federations and athletes. His leadership is expected to solidify UCI’s commitment to developing a more inclusive, clean, and safe environment for cyclists worldwide.
