'Our goal is to protect clean riders' – virtual cycling platform MyWhoosh introduces randomly selected anti-doping programme

Virtual cycling platform MyWhoosh has announced the launch of an anti-doping and integrity testing programme aimed at preserving fair competition within its e-racing community. The initiative will initially involve around 700 riders, making it the first known anti-doping scheme specifically designed for virtual cycling competitions. Starting from 17 May, selected participants will undergo random drug testing after events, with samples collected remotely by appointed personnel to ensure compliance. MyWhoosh, based in Abu Dhabi and known for hosting the UCI Esports World Championships, offers substantial prize money through its Sunday Race Club, which features a monthly purse of $300,000 distributed across multiple categories. Testing will be conducted in partnership with International Doping Tests & Management (IDTM), with riders notified at various points before, during, or after races. To facilitate testing, competitors must provide accurate location details at registration and remain at their declared location for up to three hours post-race to provide urine, blood, or dried blood spot samples. The platform’s Director of Esports & Game Operations, Matt Smithson, emphasised that the anti-doping measures are essential to protect clean riders and uphold the integrity of the sport as the Sunday Race Club continues to grow. He highlighted that the programme complements existing anti-cheating systems, which verify hardware, software, and physiological data such as power output and heart rate to prevent mechanical fraud. Smithson described the drug testing initiative as a crucial step in ensuring a level playing field and maintaining trust within the global e-racing community. Riders who refuse or evade testing, or who attempt to tamper with samples, face strict penalties including disqualification, forfeiture of prize money, and suspension from the platform. The introduction of this anti-doping programme signals a significant move towards professionalising virtual cycling by aligning it with the integrity standards found in traditional sports. As e-racing continues to expand, MyWhoosh’s proactive approach may set a precedent for other platforms seeking to safeguard competitive fairness in the digital arena.