Italian Cyclist Linda Laporta Provisionally Suspended Following Positive Doping Test at UAE Tour Women

Italian cyclist Linda Laporta has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for enobosarm, also known as ostarine, during the UAE Tour Women on February 5, 2026. The International Testing Agency (ITA) confirmed the adverse analytical finding, marking a rare doping case in the women’s professional peloton.

Details of the Case

The sample was collected during an “intelligence-led testing” mission conducted by the ITA at the WorldTour race. Enobosarm is a S1.2 class anabolic agent prohibited under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules. According to the ITA, ostarine can increase lean body mass and promote muscle growth, and has been used to treat muscle wasting and osteoporosis. ITA Statement

Laporta’s Career and Team

Laporta, 26, rides for Vini Fantini-BePink, an Italian continental-level squad. She turned professional in 2024 and finished 50th overall at the 2026 UAE Tour Women. Velo News Report She has not yet achieved a professional race victory. ProCyclingStats Profile

Provisional Suspension and Next Steps

Under UCI anti-doping rules, a mandatory provisional suspension has been imposed on Laporta. She has been formally notified of the result and has the right to request analysis of her B-sample. If the B-sample confirms the initial finding, or if she declines to request analysis, the case will proceed as a confirmed anti-doping rule violation.

Recent Doping Cases in Women’s Cycling

Doping cases in women’s professional cycling remain relatively infrequent. In 2025, only one of the 20 recorded cases among professional cyclists involved a female rider, according to the Movement for Credible Cycling (MPCC). Velo News Report

As of March 22, 2026, neither Laporta nor her team had issued a public response to the ITA’s announcement. Velo News Report The ITA has been responsible for the UCI’s anti-doping program since 2026.