Here’s a bold statement: No sport can ever claim to be 100% clean, and cycling is no exception. But here’s where it gets controversial—even with rigorous anti-doping measures in place, absolute certainty remains out of reach. Ben Healy, the 2025 Tour de France stage winner and race leader, recently shed light on this complex issue in a candid interview with The Irish Mirror. While acknowledging the thorough and frequent testing cyclists undergo, Healy emphasized that the fight against banned substances is far from over.
Healy pointed to the case of Oier Lazkano as a prime example of how testing can effectively expose potential doping violations. And this is the part most people miss—despite such successes, Healy firmly believes that declaring any sport entirely clean is unrealistic. “In any sport, I think it’s impossible to say, ‘Oh yeah, the sport is 100% clean,’” he stated. This isn’t to undermine the efforts of governing bodies, which are working tirelessly to maintain integrity and catch offenders.
Cycling, in particular, faces intense scrutiny, with riders tested more frequently than athletes in many other sports. Yet, Healy argues that the evolving nature of doping methods means the battle is never truly won. Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Can any anti-doping system ever stay ahead of those determined to cheat?
Shifting gears, Healy also discussed the rapid advancements in cycling technology and tactics. He highlighted the stark difference in equipment over the past five years, noting, “The bikes are night and day compared to when I first started racing at Under-23.” Teams like UAE, led by four-time winner Tadej Pogačar, exemplify this evolution with their relentless, high-speed racing strategies. “They set up their train, and one by one, riders push the pace to its absolute limit,” Healy explained.
Despite these changes, Healy doesn’t foresee major shifts in 2026, anticipating a similar racing calendar. However, he cautioned against complacency, stating, “If you think one thing will work forever, you’re only fooling yourself. It’s a natural progression to adapt and evolve.”
Now, here’s where we invite your thoughts: Do you agree that no sport can ever be entirely clean, or is there room for optimism? And how do you think cycling can continue to balance technological advancements with fair play? Share your views in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
