Sam Laidlow tells accusers: ‘You will not take this away from me’

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’.