Michel Hessmann, a German rider who has been serving a 21-month doping suspension, will return to professional racing with Movistar in March, following the conclusion of his suspension.
The 23-year-old has been sidelined since June 2023, after testing positive for chlorthalidone, a diuretic banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). His suspension is set to expire on March 15, 2025, marking the beginning of his tenure with Movistar.
Hessmann gained recognition in 2022 when he finished third overall at the prestigious Tour de l’Avenir and claimed the under-23 German time trial title. However, his career took a sharp turn in June 2023 when a positive anti-doping result led to his immediate suspension from Visma-Lease a Bike. Despite still being under contract with Visma until the end of 2024, the team announced in August that he would not return.
Chlorthalidone, a diuretic, is prohibited by WADA for its potential to induce rapid weight loss and conceal the use of other performance-enhancing substances. The substance is banned both in and out of competition.
Although Hessmann faced the possibility of a four-year ban, German authorities ultimately accepted his argument that contaminated painkillers were likely responsible for the positive test. Initially handed a four-month suspension, this decision was appealed by WADA and later extended to 21 months.
In a statement, Movistar expressed their belief that the doping incident was likely due to an “episode of contamination.” Hessmann himself echoed this sentiment in a press release, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to join the Spanish team, known for its storied history and success in the cycling world.
“I’m incredibly grateful to have the chance to prove myself for this team, with a palmarès and history unrivaled in cycling,” Hessmann said. “I consider myself a versatile rider who fits well into modern cycling, where every race is fiercely contested from start to finish. I’m still discovering my strengths, whether in long climbs like those in the Tour de l’Avenir or the Giro. My aim is to assist the team leaders across all terrains, especially in stage races, and to continue evolving as a rider, so I can eventually achieve personal results.”
With his suspension soon to end, Hessmann’s return to the professional peloton will be closely watched as he aims to make his mark with Movistar.
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