Colombian cyclist Fernando Gaviria is once again in the spotlight, but this time the attention is far from celebratory. The renowned sprinter, famous for his Grand Tour stage wins and explosive speed, is facing major legal trouble after a shocking DUI arrest in Monaco. The 31-year-old rider, who recently moved from Movistar to Caja Rural, had just celebrated his wedding in October before this incident unfolded.
According to detailed reports from Monaco, Fernando Gaviria was arrested earlier in October for driving under the influence. Police stopped the Colombian cyclist after observing dangerous and erratic driving behaviour in broad daylight. Tests revealed an extremely high blood alcohol level of 2.40 grams per litre, a figure that is nearly five times above Monacoās legal limit. The DUI reading immediately turned the situation into a severe legal case.
Gaviria appeared before a Monaco court without a lawyer, further intensifying the seriousness of the DUI arrest. The judge described his level of intoxication as ālife-threatening,ā noting that he was just āone or two drinks away from a coma.ā After his arrest, police held him until midnight, allowing him to sober up before formally processing the charges.
During the hearing, Fernando Gaviria admitted he had made a grave mistake. He explained that he had only slept a few hours and believed he was capable of driving safely. The Colombian cyclist cited work pressure, professional stress, and family issues as reasons behind the excessive drinking that led to his DUI arrest in Monaco. The incident occurred only a week before he travelled to Colombia for his wedding.Ā Read more about Cycling here
The court issued several strict penalties, including a two-month suspended prison sentence, a two-year driving ban in Monaco, a ā¬5,000 fine, and additional minor sanctions. These rulings place Gaviriaās reputation and career under intense scrutiny.
For a cyclist once celebrated for major victories at the Giro dāItalia, Tour de France, UAE Tour, and other prestigious races, this legal trouble represents a major setback. As Fernando Gaviria prepares to start a new chapter with Caja Rural, the DUI arrest in Monaco threatens to overshadow his achievements and momentum.
Despite the controversy, many supporters in the cycling community hope the Colombian cyclist can overcome this difficult moment and rebuild his professional image and personal life.
