The Tour de France, one of the world’s most prestigious cycling events, is under scrutiny once again as concerns about mechanical doping – the use of hidden motors in bike frames – resurface. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has taken steps to address this issue, with Nicholas Raudenski, a former U.S. Department of Homeland Security investigator, leading its unit against technological fraud.
Raudenski’s team uses advanced technology to detect and prevent cheating. They weigh and X-ray bikes before testing them with magnetometers. In some cases, the entire bike is disassembled. The UCI has also announced that it will pay informants and whistleblowers who provide information on mechanical doping.
Despite the efforts of Raudenski’s unit, many fans remain skeptical about the sport’s legitimacy. The 2021 Tour de France was marred by rumors of hidden motors, with some riders claiming to have heard “strange noises” coming from their competitors’ bikes.
Pogacar’s dominance is a particular point of contention, with some questioning how he can be so strong without being caught doping. However, Raudenski believes that Pogacar has been tested extensively and has repeatedly denied allegations of cheating.
The UCI has undergone significant changes in its anti-doping program over the years, increasing spending on tests and improving detection methods. The International Testing Agency estimates that relatively few well-known cyclists have tested positive for drugs in the last decade, suggesting a strong testing regime and changed culture.
Raudenski’s work is not just about catching cheaters but also about restoring trust with fans. He says that if he wanted to cheat, he would know how to do it. The UCI has signaled its commitment to cleaning up the sport, and Raudenski’s unit is working tirelessly to ensure that all riders compete fairly.
As the Tour de France continues, Raudenski’s efforts will be closely watched by fans and officials alike. The outcome of this battle between technology and integrity could determine the future of professional cycling.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/07/25/tour-france-bikes-hidden-motors