The Dutch newspaper NOS reported that Nils Ehoff is headed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to challenge the decision that disqualified him from the U23 men's race at the Yorkshire World Championships According to NOS, Ehoff is supported by the Dutch Cycling Federation.

Eekhoff finished first in the U23 race in September and shared his joy with his teammates and coaching staff. But after the race, the jury was asked to look back at the video footage after the Dutchman crashed with less than 130 km to go and used the slipstream of the team car to return to the peloton.

Eekhoff was found guilty of violating UCI Regulation 2.12.007 Art 4.7 and was given the maximum penalty of disqualification. As a result, the rainbow jersey was handed to Samuele Battistella (ITA) and Eekhoff left the race in tears (opens in new tab).

Ehoff had no opportunity to appeal the UCI's decision, but within hours of the race and the jury's decision, the 21-year-old's representatives informed Cycling News that they would consider legal action.

Eickhoff is a member of Team Sunweb, but his management company SEG is one of the most prominent and respected athlete agencies in mainland Europe. Hours after Eickhoff was expelled, SEG sent a message to CyclingNews stating: "Together with Team Sunweb, we will investigate the situation and consider our legal options to protect Nils and ensure he gets the rainbow jersey he deserves. Our legal department is currently investigating this matter."

According to NOS, the problem is even bigger. According to NOS, "When I suddenly heard the news of my disqualification, tears welled up in my eyes. I didn't think I was going to be harmed, I didn't think I was playing with fire," Eickhoff reportedly told NOS.

The rider's position is supported by his national federation (KNWU).

"The application of its rules must be different. Nils must also clarify why the decision was made at the time it was made."

"By doing this, maybe something good can come out of this situation. At the very least, these regulations and their application need to be carefully considered. And then we will see what the results are."

Cycling News has reached out to both Team Sunweb and SEG Cycling for comment.

CAS has not formally announced when it will meet to discuss the Eickhoff case.