The Prosecutor of the Belgian Cycling Federation has requested a two-year suspension for Greg Van Avermaet. The 29-year-old BMC rider may also be asked to pay a fine of 262,500 euros. Van Avermaet is suspected of using performance-enhancing methods as a customer of sports doctor Chris Mertens.

Today the podium finisher at Paris-Roubaix explained his contacts with the controversial doctor in a hearing with the cycling federation. The case was revealed in late February, on the day of the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad. It is not yet clear what evidence the prosecutor has. Van Avermaet has not tested positive, and not doping products have been found in his possession.

In Van Avermaet's case, two products have been mentioned: Diprophos and Vaminolact. Diprophos is a corticosteroid that is on the prohibited list, but is not prohibited out of competition or with a medical certificate. Vaminolact is used for recovery and is only punishable if it is injected.

Van Avermaet denies that he has done anything wrong. "I have done nothing wrong and can not blame myself," said the Belgian in late February. "I have used Mertens' services, but not for illegal purposes."

The verdict in the case is expected on May 7. On Sunday, Van Avermaet will be at the start of the Amstel Gold Race.