UCI bans former head of performance at British Continental team for 10 years over Code of Ethics breaches
Ladislav Demko was found to have "fallen short of the standards of integrity, care and diligence"
Former head of performance for British Continental team Hess Cycling, Ladislav Demko, has been banned for ten years by the cycling governing body UCI due to Code of Ethics violations. The Ethics Commission concluded that Demko's behavior fell short of the required integrity, care, and diligence. He abused his position within the team by engaging in aggressive and disrespectful language, unsafe driving, and demeaning remarks about staff and riders' appearance.
Additionally, he was found guilty of psychological abuse and isolation, which had a detrimental impact on a former athlete he coached. The investigation was assisted by an independent external investigator and a consensual personal relationship between Demko and the athlete did not exempt his actions from the UCI Code of Ethics.
Demko faces a ban from participating in any cycling-related activity organized by the UCI or its affiliates, a fine, and is required to cover the costs of the proceedings. The UCI acknowledged the courage of those who reported the misconduct and emphasized that any form of harassment or abuse is incompatible with the values of cycling.
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