Greg Van Avermaet was expected to show at the Disciplinary Committee next Friday to explain his relations with the „ozone doctor” Chris Mertens. The BMC Racing rider will be represented by his attorney, though, as he will take the start of the Tirreno-Adriatico on Wednesday.

Van Avermaet preferred to take the start of the Tirreno-Adriatico, his last build up race towards the Milano-Sanremo, instead of speaking for himself during the hearing at the Disciplinary Committee held on Friday, March 13th. The Belgian rider didn't deny his connections with a doctor, but emphasized that he has never violated anti-doping rules while talking to media at the start of the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad.