Belgian cyclocross rider Toon Aerts has undergone a positive doping test, he confirmed on Tuesday evening. The out-of-competition test was carried out on January 19. Traces of Letrozole metabolite were found in his urine.
Aerts and his Baloise Trek Lions team are now awaiting the results of the B sample analysis. The runner is temporarily inactive.
The former Belgian champion was the first surprised. “My world fell apart yesterday. I received the message (from the UCI, Ed) that an abnormal result had been found in my urine sample taken during an out-of-competition test at my home on the 19th January,” Aerts explained. “I’m trying to find out how this could have happened. The Letrozole metabolite was found in my urine sample. A product that I had never heard of until yesterday and that I don’t know neither how he entered my body”, added the former Belgian champion who wants to prove his innocence.
“Anyone who knows me a little knows that I have been against doping throughout my career and that I have always done everything to be an example as an athlete. So I will do everything to prove my innocence and clear my name. Pending analysis of the B sample and further investigations, I will not comment.”
Toon Aerts is supported by his team. “We have heard Toon and take him at his word that he has not taken any products that may contain the substance. We are now awaiting the B sample and any other items Toon may collect,” Baloise Trek Lions responded.