Cookson seeks UCI re-election

UCI president Brian Cookson has announced his election manifesto along with the intention to stay in the position for the next four years.

The UCI’s work under Cookson’s presidency has included clamping down on anti-doping, governance structures and on further globalising the sport. Cookson came unde fire earlier this year when a panel consisting of British Cycling and UK Sport members criticised the running of British Cycling – an organisation Cookson led from 1996 to 2013.

 “I am seeking the continued trust and support of the cycling community, so we can build on the progress that we have made together over the last four years,” said Cookson.

“I stood for the Presidency of the UCI in 2013 as I felt strongly that the UCI needed to embrace a new way of doing things and address, head on, the critical challenges facing our sport. I believe the record shows I have kept my promises and made real progress during my first term.

“I have been honoured by the trust that has been placed in me to lead the UCI, and I am proud of the work we have done together. One of my most important commitments was to review and improve, where needed, our governance and transparency. That’s why we revised our Constitution, introducing a number of improvements in line with best practice, including term limits for the UCI President.

“We are now proud to be a well-respected international federation, seen by WADA and other anti-doping organisations as being the reference point in our work for clean sport. We have made a great start but there is much more that needs to be done. That’s why I’m standing for a second and final term as UCI President.

“This strategic plan will drive growth across all cycling’s disciplines, accelerate our international development, champion cycling for transport and leisure, ensure equal opportunity for men and women to participate and compete, build on our restored credibility and ensure the UCI continues to drive excellence in our operations.

“Over the next four years I want to build on the strong foundation we now have in place, but of course I cannot deliver this alone. I need your help and support to implement this plan, so that, together, we can continue the job and achieve a strong and truly global cycling community.”

The vote will take place in September at the UCI Congress in Bergen, Norway.