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A New Zealand cyclist has been temporarily banned from competition after he was caught on video punching a teammate during a race last month.
The International Cycling Union (UCI) announced this week that Kiaan Watts, 24, will serve a 25-day suspension for his actions during the Salverda Bouw Ster van Zwolle race in the Netherlands on March 7.
Kiaan Watts of New Zealand/Black Spoke Pro Cycling Academy warms up before Stage 1 of the New Zealand Cycling Classic at Wairarapa on January 15, 2020, in Wellington, New Zealand. (Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)
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“Video footage of the incident at the Dutch event on March 7, 2026 showed Kiaan Watts approaching another rider and punching him sharply,” the statement read. “The rider acknowledged the violation of article 12.4.009 of the UCI Regulations and accepted the sanction proposed by the UCI.”
the bbc reported that Marijn Maas of Holland was the cyclist hit by Watts. He staggered but remained upright after the hit and Watts was reportedly disqualified from the race.
Marijn Maas of BEAT CC powered by Saxo competes in the ITT Beltrum Stage 2 on Day 2 of the Metec Olympia’s Tour in Beltrum, Netherlands, on March 26, 2026. (Wart Brinkerhof/Marcel ter Bals/DeFodi Images/DeFodi)
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Watts, who currently rides on the NSN development team, served a one-day suspension from his team and will serve a 25-day suspension imposed by the UCI. He was also ordered to pay a $220 fine and had 25 UCI points deducted.
He will be able to return to competition on May 2.
Kiaan Watts of New Zealand competes for Team Israel – Premier Tech during the 94th Baloise Belgium Tour 2025 individual time trial stage from Tessenderlo to Ham on June 20, 2025, in Ham, Belgium. (Rhode Van Elsen/Getty Images)
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“The UCI reminds that, as UCI license holders and members of the cycling community, cyclists enjoy rights and assume responsibilities aimed at promoting the values of cycling and protecting the integrity of the sport,” the statement added.
“Respecting this Charter fosters an environment in which sportsmanship, fairness and respect prevail.”
