19-year-old Hungarian racer provisionally suspended following anabolic steroid positive

Hungarian cyclist Bálint Makrai, aged 19 and currently riding for ProTeam MBH Bank-CSB Telecom Fort, has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for the anabolic steroid Metandienone. The adverse analytical finding emerged from an out-of-competition test conducted on 30 March 2026. Metandienone, commonly known as Dianabol, is a banned substance known to enhance muscle mass, endurance, and strength by increasing testosterone levels, according to the International Testing Agency (ITA). Makrai, who has been part of the MBH Bank-CSB Telecom Fort team as it transitioned from an amateur club to a Continental squad and now a ProTeam, had participated in several races this season. Notably, he started the Tour de la Provence but did not complete the first stage. He also competed in .2 category races such as the UMAG Classic, Popolarissima, and the GP Slovenian Istria, the latter two won by his teammates Davide Persico and Nicolò Buratti. His last race appearance was at the GP Slovenian Istria on 22 March, eight days before the positive test was recorded. The ITA has informed Makrai of the positive result and confirmed his right to request the analysis of the B-sample to contest the findings. Should the B-sample confirm the presence of Metandienone, the doping violation will be considered confirmed. If Makrai chooses not to request the B-sample analysis, the case will proceed as a confirmed violation regardless, though he will still have the opportunity to present explanations. In line with the World Anti-Doping Code and UCI regulations, a mandatory provisional suspension has been imposed on Makrai. He retains the right to challenge this suspension and request its lifting. The case highlights ongoing efforts to maintain integrity in cycling, with the ITA and UCI continuing to enforce strict anti-doping measures across all levels of the sport.