New UCI president Brian Cookson has wasted no time setting up an independent commission to look into alleged past wrongdoings by cycling’s governing body.
The former British Cycling president was appointed three months ago, on a manifesto promising huge changes to both men and women’s cycling and to the UCI itself in a bid to rebuild trust in the sport.
And the 62-year-old revealed that the commission – consisting of a former state prosecutor, a CAS arbitrator, and an ex-military officer – has now started preparatory work.
“I am delighted to announce that we now have the three-member independent commission which I promised in my manifesto,” Cookson said.
“This commission will investigate the problems cycling has faced in recent years, especially the allegations that the UCI has been involved in wrongdoing in the past –
allegations which have done so much to hurt the credibility of the UCI and our sport.
“Their work will also be focused on understanding what went so wrong in our sport and they will make recommendations for change so that as far as possible those mistakes are not repeated.”
Formed as the Cycling Independent Reform Commission (CIRC), it is headed by chairman Dicky Marty, a high-profile Swiss politician and former state prosecutor.
Ulrich Haas, a German specialist in anti-doping rules and procedures, and Australian former military officer Peter Nicholson, will operate as vice-chairmen.
A budget and timescale have been agreed with CIRC, but the Lausanne-based commission will otherwise work completely independently of the UCI.
Cookson also revealed that progress has been made on other parts of his manifesto pledges, including reform of men’s elite road racing – which is set for an overhaul of the existing system in 2015 – and in women’s cycling.
Cookson said: “There is plenty more to be done but I’m really encouraged by the positive atmosphere at the meetings we are having with all of cycling’s stakeholders, and the general willingness to co-operate to build a better and more sustainable future for all involved.
“I am also very pleased that our new women’s commission has met for the first time to start planning its work and that all UCI commissions now have a female member.
“Work is well underway to transform the broadcast coverage of women’s elite cycling’s premier series, the UCI Women’s Road World Cup, and I am really committed to unlocking the fantastic potential of women’s cycling.”
Reflecting on the months ahead, Cookson added: “I made a number of important pledges in my manifesto and I am absolutely determined that these promises are not only met but become realities as soon as possible.
“I am extremely fortunate to have a top class, motivated and dedicated team and we’ve made good progress on a number of fronts.”
