Photo via Cyclingnews

'We have been in touch with the rider directly and apologised' – ITA responds to Valentina Cavallar's post about doping control on day her mother died

The International Testing Agency (ITA) has issued a statement apologizing to Austrian cyclist Valentina Cavallar after a doping control visit to her home occurred just hours following her mother’s death in September 2026. Cavallar had criticized the timing of the test in an Instagram post, describing it as emotionally devastating and out of place during her family’s grief.

The ITA confirmed that the doping control officer was unaware of her personal situation prior to arrival and only learned of her mother’s passing upon entering her home. Despite the circumstances, the agency stated that Cavallar and her family cooperated fully with the procedure, with no requests made to delay or cancel the test at the time.

The ITA acknowledged the incident as an ‘exceptionally sensitive situation’ and emphasized its commitment to balancing anti-doping enforcement with respect for athletes’ personal struggles. The agency has since reached out directly to Cavallar to express its condolences and apologize for any distress caused during this difficult period.

Up nextCycling· 2h ago

GB men 'on back foot' after Richardson withdrawal, but women take silver