UAE Team Emirates has defended its previous use of carbon monoxide inhalation for training in response to recent criticisms. During a press conference on December 10, the team announced it would discontinue the practice, though they emphasized that it is a standard technique validated for measuring altitude benefits. The controversy arose after reports linked the technique to potential performance enhancement, prompting scrutiny from the International Cycling Union. Team performance coordinator Jeroen Swart stated that results showed their altitude camps were effective and that no further tests would be conducted.