The designer of outfits for a Colombian women's cycling team defended the uniforms against complaints by cycling authorities that the clothing was inappropriate.
The team, IDRD-Bogota Humana-San Mateo-Solgar caused a stir over the weekend at the Tour of Tuscany with a skin-tight maillot, which is flesh-coloured across the cyclists' thighs and abdomen, at first glance making team members look naked across the pelvic area.
"It is based on sponsors' colours. It is in no way grotesque or scandalous," cyclist-designer Angie Ariza posted on Twitter.
Brian Cookson, president of the International Cycling Federation (UCI), described the outfits as as "unacceptable," after a team picture went viral on the internet.
"To the many who have raised the issue of a certain women's team kit, we are on the case.
