Everts: Judgement hard to accept.

World champion Stefan Everts has stated that the decision of the International Disciplinary Court - to punish him for his part in a riders' protest - is hard to accept.

The 10-minute protest occurred just before the start of the first MX1 race at the season ending South African Grand Prix.

The riders were protesting against the 2005 plans of championship promoter Youthstream to withdraw prize money, but Everts and fellow frontrunner Mickael Pichon were the only riders reported by the International Jury of the Sun City event.

The International Disciplinary Court (CDI) has now fined Everts and Pichon CHF 10,000 each for their part in the protest.

"It's hard to accept the judgement the CDI made in the case of the riders' protest because the decision not to start was made as a group by all regular GP riders," said Everts. "As a world champion I was merely the spokesperson of the group."

Meanwhile, in a separate case, Everts was also punished for his actions in the second MX1 race, when he threw his googles at Pichon - and attempted to block the Frenchman's progress - after the pair tangled on track, forcing Everts to fall.

The CDI handed Everts a suspension of one year, conditionally deferred for a period of 2 years, and a fine of CHF 15,000 for his actions.

"For the second case I accept the fact that I get sanctioned for my acts. My reaction was too strong, and it's something that will never happen again," said Stefan.