Marion Sicot admits using EPO, alleges abuse at Doltcini-Van Eyck

Marion Sicot
Marion Sicot (Image credit: Getty Images)

Marion Sicot has admitted to using EPO in an exclusive interview with Stade 2 that aired on Sunday. The French rider, who tested positive for the banned substance last June, has requested a reduced suspension alleging that her decision to purchase and use the drug happened after she experienced months of psychological harassment and abuse by Doltcini-Van Eyck team director Marc Bracke.

"I tried to protect myself by lying …" Sicot told Stade 2. "But once you tell the truth, you're much better, you manage to sleep better and get up in the morning by being a little more proud of what you have done."

Kirsten Frattini
Deputy Editor

Kirsten Frattini is the Deputy Editor of Cyclingnews, overseeing the global racing content plan.

Kirsten has a background in Kinesiology and Health Science. She has been involved in cycling from the community and grassroots level to professional cycling's biggest races, reporting on the WorldTour, Spring Classics, Tours de France, World Championships and Olympic Games.

She began her sports journalism career with Cyclingnews as a North American Correspondent in 2006. In 2018, Kirsten became Women's Editor – overseeing the content strategy, race coverage and growth of women's professional cycling – before becoming Deputy Editor in 2023.