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A New Zealand cyclist has been temporarily banned from competition after video caught him punching a fellow rider during a race last month.
The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) announced this week that Kiaan Watts, 24, will serve a 25-day ban 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 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 rally on 7 March 2026 showed Kiaan Watts reaching out to another rider and giving him a closed fist punch,” 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.”
BBC reported that Marijn Maas of the Netherlands was the rider hit by Watts. He staggered but remained upright after the impact, 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, the 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, received 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 can 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 issues a reminder that riders, as holders of UCI licenses and members of the cycling community, 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 where sportsmanship, fairness and respect prevail.”
