MyWhoosh introduces anti-doping tests to virtual cycling races – here’s how it will work

Virtual cycling platform MyWhoosh has announced the implementation of anti-doping protocols for its competitive races, effective immediately. This initiative, detailed by BikeRadar, involves partnering with the International Testing Agency (ITA) to conduct out-of-competition and in-competition testing, mirroring traditional UCI regulations. Riders competing for prize money or official titles on MyWhoosh will now be subject to biological passport analysis and sample collection, marking a significant step towards legitimising virtual racing.

This development is crucial as virtual platforms like MyWhoosh, Zwift, and RGT increasingly host high-stakes competitions, blurring the lines between esports and traditional cycling. The shadow of past doping scandals in real-world cycling, and the inherent difficulties in verifying performance in a digital environment, have long cast doubt on the integrity of virtual results. MyWhoosh's move, particularly with the ITA's involvement, aims to address these concerns head-on, potentially setting a new standard for competitive online cycling and its acceptance within the broader sporting landscape.

While a commendable effort to ensure fair play, one might observe this is less about preventing new forms of cheating and more about ensuring the old ones don’t simply migrate indoors.