By Paul Osborne

The kit worn by a womens Colombian cycling team has caused uproar on social media ©TwitterBrian Cookson, President of the International Cycling Union (UCI), has criticised the "unacceptable" outfits worn by a women's Colombian cycling team while racing at the Giro della Toscana in Tuscany, Italy.

A photograph of the six IDRD-Bogota Humana-San Mateo-Solgar cyclists has been circulating on social media over the weekend, picking up criticism for the apparent nakedness around the midriff area.

The mainly red and yellow outfit appears to be largely ordinary from the midriff up, however, an apparent flesh-coloured torso area gives the impression that the wearer is partly naked.

Following the continued criticism of the outfit, Cookson took to Twitter to explain the UCI "were on the case".

"To the many who have raised the issue of a certain women's team kit, we are on the case," he wrote.

"It is unacceptable by any standard of decency."

UCI President Brian Cookson condemned the outfits as "unacceptable" and said the UCI were "one the case" ©Getty ImagesUCI President Brian Cookson condemned the outfits as "unacceptable" and said the UCI were "one the case" ©Getty Images



Among the many critics is British Olympic, Commonwealth and world road race champion Nicole Cooke, who tweeted: "This has turned the sport into a joke. Girls stand up for yourselves - say no."

Despite the critics, reports in Colombia have indicated that a member of the team designed the outfits with riders having worn it for several months already.

Following Cookson's tweet the UCI released a statement stating: "The UCI will be sending a letter to the Colombian Federation reminding them of their responsibility regarding article 1.3.046 in the control of regional and club team kits that compete in international events."

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