UCI Backs Andorran Cycling Federation in Licensing Dispute with Pro Riders

The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has backed the Andorran Cycling Federation (FAC) in its dispute with professional cyclists residing in Andorra, confirming that riders must obtain licences through their country of residence.

This decision follows a meeting between UCI president David Lappartient, FAC president Maria José Rivas, and European Cycling Union (UEC) president Enrico Della Casa at the UEC Congress. In a letter distributed to clubs and riders—and shared by the FAC—the UCI validated all FAC-issued licences for the 2026 season. Riders who used the deposit system to address potential doping cases can maintain it through 2026, shifting to the new system only in 2027.

The controversy arose after the FAC increased fees from €750 to €1,500 and introduced the deposit amid resistance from riders, including Trek-Lidl's Carlos Verona, who leads opposition among Andorran residents. A UCI-led review identified several professionals living in the Principat who had yet to licence locally. Their cases are now under regularisation, which will increase the number of pro licences linked to Andorra.

The letter reinforces a core UCI regulation: professionals must licence via their primary residence federation, a policy the organisation will enforce.

The FAC welcomed the outcome, noting it clears uncertainties and provides a stable base to promote cycling in Andorra. The federation first circulated the UCI letter to those involved.