The UCI suspended Astana Kazakstan's Michele Gazzoli for one year after she tested positive for a banned substance at the Volta Ao Algarve on February 17, 2022.

Following the news, Astana announced that it had terminated Gazzoli's contract, citing a zero-tolerance policy.

The substance, Tuaminoheptane (a hyperemia remover), is classified as a stimulant by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Because it is a "specified substance," Gazzoli was not provisionally suspended even though he tested positive. UCI rules on specific substances provide for a shorter ban in case of accidental ingestion.

According to Astana's announcement, Gazzoli, 23 and in his first year as a professional, claims that the incident was due to the use of a nasal drop called Rhino Fluimucil, which is used to treat rhinitis. The list of ingredients lists toaminoheptane sulfate (DCI).

Astana emphasizes that this product was "purchased independently at a pharmacy, without any connection with the medical staff of the Astana Kazakstan team," and further that "the Astana Kazakstan team has no connection with this unfortunate anti-doping rule violation by Michele Gazzoli. We categorically emphasize that we have nothing to do with it."

"The Astana Kazakstan Team has decided to terminate its contract with Michele Gazzoli immediately, in accordance with its zero tolerance policy."

The Astana Kazakstan Team has also decided to terminate its contract with Michele Gazzoli.

Following the adjudication of the case, the UCI decided to impose a one-year suspension on Gazzoli from August 10, 2022 to August 9, 2023, disqualifying her from the 2022 Volta Ao Algarve em Vicicleta.

Under UCI rules, the presence of certain substances, such as toaminoheptane, in an anti-doping sample does not result in a mandatory provisional suspension. For this reason, Gazzoli will continue to race in 2022, completing the Tour de Pollogne.