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A New Zealand cyclist has been temporarily banned from competing after a video captured him punching another rider during a race last month.
The Union Cycliste Internationale (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 the first stage of the New Zealand Cycle Classic in 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 reaching out to another driver and punching him with a closed fist,” the statement said. “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 the Netherlands was the runner hit by Watts. He wobbled but remained standing after the punch, and Watts would have been disqualified from the race.
Marijn Maas of BEAT CC powered by Saxo competes in the ITT Beltrum Stage 2 on the second day 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 for 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 fine of $220 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 individual time trial stage of the Baloise Belgium Tour 2025, from Tessenderlo to Ham, on June 20, 2025, in Ham, Belgium. (Rhode Van Elsen/Getty Images)
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“The UCI recalls that as UCI license holders and members of the cycling community, riders enjoy rights and assume responsibilities aimed at promoting the values of cycling and protecting the integrity of the sport,” the press release added.
“Respect for this Charter promotes an environment in which sportsmanship, fairness and respect prevail.”
