Just days after reportedly finalizing a contract with Caja Rural-Seguros RGA for the 2026 season [[1]],Colombian cyclist fernando Gaviria is facing legal repercussions following an incident last October. The rider appeared in a Monaco court on November 22nd and received a two-month suspended prison sentence for driving under the influence, a penalty that casts uncertainty over his anticipated role as a team leader [[2]].Details emerging from the case reveal a blood alcohol level more then five times the legal limit, prompting concerns about athlete conduct and potential impacts on performance.
Just days after securing a new contract with Caja Rural, cyclist Fernando Gaviria has been handed a two-month suspended prison sentence and multiple fines for driving under the influence. The ruling comes after an incident last October and throws a shadow over the Colombian rider’s fresh start with his new team following his time with Movistar Team.
According to reports from Nice-Matin, Gaviria appeared in a Monaco court on November 22nd to address the charges stemming from his arrest on October 22nd. Police detained him near the Canton roundabout for reckless driving and multiple traffic violations.
“He showed signs of intoxication, and police measured a blood alcohol level of 1.18 mg/l of breath, or approximately 2.40 grams per liter of blood. That’s one or two drinks away from a coma. You are a public danger,” stated Judge Florestan Bellinzona, with the French publication adding that this reading was five times the legal limit.
What did Fernando Gaviria say?
During the hearing, Gaviria, representing himself without legal counsel, took responsibility for his actions. “I slept a few hours before going out. I felt like driving the car. It was my mistake, and I won’t do it again. I was experiencing work stress and family problems,” he explained.
Judge Bellinzona noted that authorities had to wait several hours for the effects of the alcohol to subside before proceeding with the arrest. “Do you believe this lifestyle is compatible with that of an elite athlete?” the judge asked, to which Gaviria responded: “No, it isn’t. I know it’s not normal.”
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Nice-Matin reported that the court followed the recommendations of First Deputy Prosecutor Mathias Marchand, sentencing Gaviria to two months of suspended imprisonment, a fine of 5,000 euros, a two-year driving ban in Monaco, and additional smaller fines. The incident raises questions about the off-the-bike conduct of professional athletes and its potential impact on their careers.
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