On Tuesday, the UCI announced that Colombian rider Germán Darío Gómez Becerra, of Team Polti VisitMalta, tested positive for Boldenone. It was after an out-of-competition test on Dec. 28. Boldenone is an old school steroid, originally developed for veterinary use. But if you’re not a doggo, it can increase muscle mass and strength.
Gómez Becerra is now provisionally suspended. He can still request analysis of his B sample, as one does.
You might remember the name Polti. It sponsored some professional cycling teams in the late ’90s and 2000s. It relaunched in 2024 under former pros Alberto Contador and Ivan Basso, who suspended his contract, and reaffirmed a zero-tolerance stance on doping. Gómez Becerra, who has some solid results, including fourth overall at the Baby Giro, maintains his innocence as proceedings continue.
“Today may be the most challenging moment of my career as a cyclist. Yet, amid the complete surprise and uncertainty caused by a result that clashes with my mindset as a high-performance athlete, I can only emphasize that my conduct, both on and off the bike, has always been transparent and exemplary.”
“On December 28, while I was inactive due to a collarbone surgery, I underwent a routine medical test,” he posted in Spanish. “I was informed on the morning of January 27 that the result showed an adverse analytical finding for Boldenone, a substance which, according to scientific standards, is typically used in livestock to enhance physical strength, weight, and muscle mass.”
Gómez Becerra said that cycling has given him everything.
“It has been the cornerstone of my life. That is why I have never considered using illicit means to gain an advantage. Such a path has never been, nor will it ever be, part of my approach to achieving my goals,” he posted.
“Throughout my career, every success I’ve earned has been the result of discipline, commitment, and the relentless effort demanded by a sport I deeply respect.”
“I deeply regret the situation we are facing,” he added. “But I also want to reaffirm my commitment to clean sport—a principle instilled in me from the beginning and one that has guided me throughout my entire career.”