Night-time anti-doping tests at the Tour de France have sparked debate. Riders like Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard were tested between 11 pm and 6 am, outside usual hours, a rare occurrence reportedly justified by "exceptional circumstances" and the need for prompt testing.

Supporters, including former rider Jonathan Vaughters, argue these tests are effective against micro-dosing performance-enhancing drugs like EPO and HGH, which can clear the system quickly. Vaughters believes such testing could have prevented past scandals.

However, the cyclists' union, the CPA, deems night tests potentially dangerous and unnecessary, advocating for "quality over quantity" in testing and investment in advanced lab equipment. The UCI, cycling's governing body, backs the night tests, prioritizing the fight against doping while acknowledging the disruption and emphasizing these are exceptional measures.

The International Testing Agency (ITA), responsible for the tests, seeks permission from public prosecutors for out-of-hours controls. The specific reasons for these tests remain undisclosed, as are test results. While typically around 600 tests are conducted during the three-week race, these late-night controls are unusual but seen as a deterrent, balancing rider recovery with the integrity of the sport.