L39ION of Los Angeles Leader Justin Williams Suspended Over Crash at Littleton Criterium
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L39ION of Los Angeles co-founder Justin Williams has been suspended for dangerous riding during the Audi Denver Littleton Twilight Criterium on August 5, 2023 which sparked a crash. Williams’ suspension will run from April 13, 2024 to June 13, 2024.
Race footage posted to social media from helmet cameras led to USA Cycling launching an investigation. The footage shows Williams diving on the inside of a left turn to the left of Thomas Gibbons (Automatic-ABUS Racing) then forcing him to the right where both riders crashed.
The investigation concluded September 8, 2023. According to a statement released by USA Cycling, “During the course of the investigation, the investigator conducted comprehensive interviews with both Justin Williams (L39ION of Los Angeles) and Thomas Gibbons (AUTOMATIC Racing), alongside testimonies from witnesses and other stakeholders. Additionally, the investigator reviewed video footage, both from the event and bystanders, of the incident to provide an understanding of the incident and the actions leading up to it.
“As a result, Williams, who was penalized in 2022 for fighting at the Salt Lake City Criterium, will be suspended for 60 days for dangerous riding. His suspension will begin on April 13, 2024, and conclude on June 13, 2024. The suspension dates reflect the provisional start date of the American Criterium Cup (ACC) for 2024. He has also been fined $250 for unsportsmanlike conduct. Gibbons will also be fined $250 for unsportsmanlike conduct.
“USA Cycling maintains a zero-tolerance stance toward dangerous racing and unsportsmanlike behavior, and is committed to ensuring the safety and integrity of cycling events in the U.S.”
According to GCN, the investigation report highlighted the argument after the crash between Justin Williams, Thomas Gibbons, Cory Williams and some of the spectators.
“Both riders engage in a loud argument taunting each other about their professionalism,” the report reads. “Some of the bystanders at the corner taunt Justin about being a professional including the race marshal working the corner.
“Justin repeatedly shouts he is a professional and ‘what are you doing’ to Gibbons. He also suggests that Thomas should retire and should know that he should not interfere with a lead-out train.”
Williams has continued to promote and plan for the first installment of his CRIT Championship. The event will be held October 21st in St. Petersburg, Florida, and will have an amateur race leading into the main ‘invite only’ professional race.
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