In an exclusive interview that’s already making waves across the cycling world, Lance Armstrong has dropped a massive bombshell on the state of professional cycling, claiming that doping is still rampant in the sport—even in the modern era of the 2025 Tour de France.
The controversial figure, who was stripped of his seven Tour de France titles following a doping scandal that rocked the cycling world two decades ago, has always been outspoken about his past and the culture of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) within the sport. But now, Armstrong’s latest revelations suggest that the problem has not only persisted but is thriving behind closed doors.
“We’ve all been led to believe that cycling has cleaned up its act,” Armstrong told reporters in a rare sit-down. “But let me tell you, it’s still happening. It’s just more sophisticated now. These guys are using methods that even the UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) is struggling to detect. You think things have changed? Think again.”
Armstrong’s comments come just weeks before the highly anticipated 2025 Tour de France kicks off, raising questions about the true state of fairness in the sport. The 2025 edition, known for its grueling mountain stages and intense competition, is expected to see some of the strongest riders in history battle for the coveted yellow jersey.
While Armstrong has made his peace with his own past, admitting to using PEDs during his peak years, he claims that many of the current riders are engaging in similar practices. He specifically called out the advanced methods being used, including gene doping and micro-dosing, which are reportedly harder to detect by anti-doping agencies.
“The methods they’re using today are almost untraceable,” Armstrong explained. “What we used to get caught for—they’re doing it in a way where it’s under the radar. It’s a shame, because the sport could be so much better without all of this.”
The cycling community has reacted with shock and disbelief to Armstrong’s claims, with many questioning the motives behind his statements. Some have speculated that Armstrong, whose reputation was tarnished by his own scandal, might be looking for redemption by pointing fingers at others. However, others believe he might be speaking from a place of genuine concern for the integrity of the sport.
“I know a lot of people are going to dismiss what Lance says just because of his history,” said cycling expert and former pro rider Alex Turner. “But the fact is, we’ve seen some of the greatest riders of our time get caught. It’s hard to ignore what he’s saying when you know just how sophisticated the doping game has become.”
But Armstrong’s concerns aren’t just about the riders. He’s also been outspoken about the role of cycling’s governing bodies, which he claims have failed to address the issue properly. According to him, the UCI has been slow to adopt new testing methods that could keep up with the evolving tactics used by dopers.
In response to Armstrong’s allegations, the UCI issued a statement denying the claims. “We remain committed to ensuring that professional cycling is clean, and we are constantly updating our testing protocols to stay ahead of new challenges,” the organization said. “We have zero tolerance for doping, and we are confident that the integrity of the sport remains intact.”
Despite the UCI’s assurances, Armstrong’s comments have sparked a renewed debate about the effectiveness of anti-doping measures. As the 2025 Tour de France approaches, many are left wondering if the cycling world is truly ready to tackle the doping issue head-on or if it will continue to lurk in the shadows.
For Armstrong, the Tour de France will always be his defining legacy—though not for the reasons he originally intended. “I regret my mistakes, but I also want the sport to move forward,” Armstrong said. “I want to see a clean Tour, and I want the riders who work hard without cheating to get the recognition they deserve. Until that happens, the fight for clean sport will never be over.”
As the 2025 Tour de France draws closer, fans and experts alike will be watching closely. Armstrong’s shocking claims have thrown the spotlight back onto doping in cycling, and the world will be waiting to see if the sport can finally move past its dark past or if it will continue to be marred by the shadow of PEDs.