Russian cyclist Denis Galimzyanov was suspended Monday after testing positive for a banned blood booster, putting at risk his chances of riding in the London Olympics.
The International Cycling Union said traces of EPO were found in an out-of-competition urine test March 22. The UCI has asked the Russian Cycling Federation to open a disciplinary case.
Anti-doping rules allow for Galimzyanov to attend the testing of his backup ''B'' sample. He faces a likely two-year ban if the second test also proves positive.
The sprint specialist had been expected to take one of Russia's three entries in the Olympic road race July 28 on a course that favors a sprint finish.
Galimzyanov is in his fifth season for the Russian team Katusha. He finished 11th in the road race world championship last September in Copenhagen, Denmark, which was won by Olympic favorite Mark Cavendish of Britain. He won the Paris-Brussels race last year.
