Leukemans still in with a chance

Björn Leukemans still retains a chance of escaping a doping suspension. The Flemish Community disciplinary council announced that it has extended the date of the final ruling on his case because the arguments presented by the defence require further investigations, according to Belgian news site HLN.be.

The 30 year-old rider from Antwerp tested positive for testosterone in an out-of-competition control last September, just before the World Championships in Stuttgart, Germany. Leukemans challenged the positive test saying that he had taken Prasteron in good faith after having it cleared by the now dismissed Predictor-Lotto team doctor Sam Vermeire.

The Disciplinary Commission initially dismissed Leukemans' challenge and in January handed down a two-year suspension. Leukemans did not agree with the verdict, opting to appeal. The council has requested more information on the medical condition of Leukemans at the time of his positive control and why Prasteron was prescribed.

Leukemans and Vewmeire will be questioned, behind closed doors, on April 8. Witnesses will also be called on the same day.