Ben Healy, the current leader of the 2025 Tour de France, has addressed the ongoing challenges of anti-doping measures in cycling. In a recent interview with The Irish Mirror, Healy acknowledged the rigorous testing protocols in place but emphasized the inherent limitations in guaranteeing a completely clean sport.
Healy pointed to the case of Oier Lazkano, who has been provisionally suspended by the Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe team due to unexplained irregularities in his biological passport. Lazkano has maintained his innocence, illustrating the complexities and controversies surrounding doping allegations. Healy remarked, “In any sport, I think it’s impossible to go, ‘Oh yeah, the sport is 100% clean.’ That’s not to take away from anything that the sport and the governing bodies are doing to try and keep it clean and catch people out.”
The leader of EF Education-Easy Post highlighted that cyclists are tested “thoroughly and pretty often,” perhaps even more so than in other sports. These measures are part of a broader effort to combat doping and ensure fair competition among athletes.
Technological Advancements in Cycling
Healy also discussed the significant improvements in cycling equipment over the years, which he believes contribute to the increasing average speeds seen in events like the Tour de France. “The bikes are night and day different almost,” he noted, comparing the equipment used now to that of just five years ago when he first raced at the Under-23 level.
He pointed to the UAE Team Emirates, led by four-time winner Tadej Pogačar, as an example of how modern racing strategies are enhancing performance. Healy described how the team sets up a “train” to pull the race along at maximum speed, demonstrating the impact of teamwork and technology on racing dynamics.
As Healy prepares for the upcoming cycling season, he has set his sights on significant events, including the Strade Bianche and the Ardennes. Following his impressive bronze medal finish at the World Championships in Rwanda last September, he aims to continue building on his success. Healy made history by becoming the first Irish rider to win an elite men’s road race medal at the World Championships since Sean Kelly in 1989.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead to 2026, Healy is focused on maintaining his current trajectory. He expressed confidence in his ability to compete at a high level, stating, “If you think one thing is going to keep on working forever, then you’re only fooling yourself.” He emphasized that while his goals will evolve, he expects to follow a similar racing calendar as in previous years.
As the cycling community continues to grapple with the challenges of doping, Healy’s insights provide a glimpse into the complexities of maintaining integrity within the sport. Through rigorous testing and advancements in technology, athletes like Healy are committed to competing fairly while striving for excellence on the world stage.
