UCI bans Ladislav Demko for 10 years over ethical breaches

The UCI Ethics Committee has issued a 10-year ban against Ladislav Demko, the former head of performance for the Hess Cycling women’s continental team. The decision follows an investigation into allegations of harassment, psychological abuse, and professional misconduct.

The commission found that Demko engaged in the habitual use of aggressive and disrespectful language, demeaning remarks regarding the physical appearance of staff and riders, and unsafe driving of team vehicles. The investigation highlighted particularly egregious conduct involving a rider with whom Demko had a consensual personal relationship. The UCI noted that Demko used his position of power to isolate, humiliate, and intimidate the athlete, even extending threats to her therapist.

Demko is prohibited from participating in any officially sanctioned cycling activity governed by the UCI or its national federation constituents for a decade. He has the right to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Hess Cycling, which competed at the continental level starting in 2023, collapsed in 2025 following reports of fraud investigations and payment issues.