UCI considers DNA to fight doping

By Mark Zalewski, North American Editor

One of the many agenda items on the docket for the International Cycling Union (UCI) during the world championships was the idea to study the use of DNA testing in an effort to step-up the fight against doping.

"After consultation with the riders' association, the ProTour Council has also decided to look into the possibility of demanding that riders be obliged to submit DNA samples," reads a UCI communiqué. "They would also be asked to undergo tests which would be used to gauge their physiological potential."

However, the medical as well as the legal implications involved with such are move are unknown and would certainly need to be studied before moving forward. UCI president Pat McQuaid told the Associated Press: "It is important for us to show that we will not tolerate cheats. DNA is not the only way. We are looking at all the possibilities that we can use."

Further showing how much non-championships issues are taking centre stage in Salzburg, McQuaid said: "I have been here since Monday, and I haven't seen a bicycle yet."