The International Cycling Union and World Anti-Doping Agency are denying claims they clashed over how their biological passport program to catch drug cheats is managed.

The UCI says WADA "never expressed any particular concerns" over the project, which costs $6.2 million annually and has led directly to disciplinary cases against eight riders since 2008.

WADA says it has no difficulties with the UCI and sees no reason for criticism.

The UCI said it was responding to a Wall Street Journal report which claimed WADA was concerned that other cases against racers under suspicion were dropped. The UCI says it continues monitoring those riders, and one has been banned after testing positive for doping.