# ProTeam Addresses Lennert Van Eetvelt’s Anti-Doping Matter
On April 21, Lotto Dstny announced that rider Lennert Van Eetvelt had reported an “alleged breach of anti-doping laws” following the Tour des Alpes Maritimes et du Var on February 19. In a statement, the team expressed confidence in a favorable resolution, stating, “We have talked to our rider and medical staff and are confident in a good outcome.” However, as part of their protocols, they have put Van Eetvelt on non-active status pending further investigation.
The issue revolves around a substance cited in the case, which is an authorized ingredient found in a nasal spray that is permissible for use during competition if declared during a control and utilized according to the instructions provided.
Reflecting on the situation, Van Eetvelt remarked, “My world was turned upside down for a moment yesterday. No rider wants to receive such a letter. I also don’t really understand what happened. At the doping control, I clearly mentioned that I was taking the nasal spray, as I have already done before in my career. I am not aware of any wrongdoing and hope this is just a mistake and this nightmare will end soon.” He took the nasal spray under the guidance of his medical supervisor.
On Saturday morning, Van Eetvelt had a productive discussion with the team’s board of directors, accompanied by the team doctor. The team conveyed, “We had a good consultation, listened to what happened to him and we are confident in a good outcome.” They reiterated their strict zero-tolerance policy, emphasizing, “Lennert has been put on non-active… This is in no way a conviction but merely the application of the MPCC (Mouvement pour un Cyclisme Crédible) guidelines. It also gives Lennert time to substantiate his case in the best way possible.”
Lennert Van Eetvelt has chosen not to make any further comments at this time, and the media is urged to respect his privacy as the investigation unfolds.
