German federation confirms two positives

The German Cycling Federation (BDR) confirmed Tuesday that it had received the papers concerning Stefan Schumacher and opened its investigation into the case. The BDR said that it had received the documents from the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) and it had immediately contacted Schumacher to present his position.

Schumacher, 27, tested positive for a third generation of EPO – CERA (Continuous Erythropoietin Receptor Activator) – based on controls taken at the Tour de France, July 5 to 27. The French anti-doping agency (AFLD) tested blood samples from the race this week after urine samples were inconclusive during the race.

He must return his response to the BDR within five workdays after he receives the notification, "or request the opening of the B sample within this time period. After his response or the analysis of the B sample, proceedings can be opened."

Team Gerolsteiner confirmed it received official documents from the BDR about two positive A-samples. "He tested positive for EPO (CERA) on July 3 and July 15, 2008." (SW)