The Belgian continental cycling team, Proximus-Cyclis, has suspended its team leader, Gert Vervoort, following accusations of inappropriate behaviour. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) ethics committee has initiated a procedure against Vervoort, citing accusations of psychological and sexual misconduct.
The UCI has imposed a provisional suspension of three months on Vervoort, based on information provided by several riders. This decision aligns with article 34.2.2 of the UCI’s code of ethics. Proximus-Cyclis was informed of this provisional suspension via email on 16th July.
Team’s immediate response
Eddy Van Bunder, the team manager, has addressed the situation: “The management and board of our team take this very seriously. Following the UCI’s instructions, we’ve placed Gert Vervoort on inactive status.”
The original complaint came from a rider no longer with the team and pertains to an incident on 13th February 2023. The UCI was informed of this on 20th March 2024. Proximus-Cyclis only learned of the complaint on 16th May, immediately deciding to work exclusively with female caregivers.
Van Bunder disclosed that the team had conversations with all riders, listening to and addressing their concerns. He also expressed frustration with the UCI’s communication process: “We can only communicate with the UCI by correspondence. No physical meetings or calls have been organised with the team management, which would improve the timing and follow-up.”
