Christian Pfannberger's B sample has tested positive for blood booster Erythropoietin (EPO), the Austrian national anti-doping agency announced today. He faces a hearing which could result in a lifetime ban.

Pfannberger tested positive for Erythropoietin in an out-of-competition doping control in March and he subsequently requested that the B sample also be tested.

Team Katusha suspended Pfannberger after the International Cycling Union (UCI) announced the positive result at the beginning May.

A hearing will take place within eight weeks. Pfannberger faces a competition ban ranging from a period of eight years to life, having previously served a two-year suspension after testing positive for testosterone in 2004.

Pfannberger, 29, denies using prohibited drugs.