IRONMAN World Championship winner Sam Laidlow has posted an explosive message on social media in response to what he says are people accusing him “of cheating the sport”.
The 24-year-old Frenchman triumphed last month in the first IMWC to be held in Nice, a year on from his breakthrough runner-up spot in Kona.
‘I am being attacked’
But writing on Instagram – in both English and French – and alongside a photo of him celebrating his victory on the podium – he started by saying: “You will not take this away from me.”
On the next slide he continued: “Today I am disgusted. Today I am saddened.
“I am being attacked, and I am ready to go to war for the sport I love so dearly.
“Some frustrated humans have accused me of cheating the sport. And I will not let it be.
“I have poured my heart and soul into my performances and my recent world title.
“I know who I am and I am willing to expose all my past medical exams and blood passport. I have NEVER asked for a TUE in my life and I have never even touched “the grey zone” that some athletes maybe do.
“No drugs, no needles, no hormones, nothing.”
What is a TUE?
A TUE is a Therapeutic Use Exemption, with the World Anti-Doping Agency specifying: “A TUE ensures that athletes can be treated for medical conditions – even if the treatment involves using a prohibited substance or method – while avoiding the risk of being sanctioned.”
Laidlow then goes on to say: “So let’s start…” before talking in more detail about those he says have accused him, adding: “All the names in beneath have now become my enemy and I will never let go of the rain you have poured on my career for no reason.”
Exactly a month after his epic swim, bike and run to glory in Nice, Laidlow released a behind-the-scenes documentary entitled: ‘Look Mum, I Can Fly’.
