Greg Van Avermaet will tell the Belgian Cycling Federation that he is a clean rider.
The BMC rider has been called in as part of an investigation into Dr Chris Mertens, who is accused of providing ozone treatment to athletes.
Nineteen athletes including riders have been cited and Van Avermaet has said that whilst he did visit Dr Mertens, he did not use any substance that is not permitted.
“I’m innocent,” van Avermaet said to Het Nieuwsblad. “I am a clean and pure rider. I haven’t done anything that was not allowed so I’m not worried.”
“I was a patient with Doctor Mertens,” he also told the media. “I’m going to explain myself to the federation, why I was there. I don’t have anything to blame myself for. I’m going to give my explanation and then all will be behind me.”
BMC have issued the following statement:
"The BMC Racing Team was notified Friday by the Belgian Cycling Federation, Koninklijke Belgische Wielrijdersbond, that Greg Van Avermaet has been requested to appear in relation to the investigation of Dr. Chris Mertens.
The Team has been aware of the investigation of Dr. Mertens from various stories published in the press, but until Friday, February 27, had not confirmed that one of the Team's riders would be required to appear.
An ongoing internal investigation is being conducted by the Team, and at the present time, no information has been obtained that indicates rules have been violated. The Team is aware that Van Avermaet was treated by Dr. Mertens, but is unaware of any treatments that would be in violation of any rules. Based on the information available to the Team at the present time, no decision has been made to remove Van Avermaet from active status.
The Team will continue its investigation and will evaluate new information at such time as it becomes available. Out of respect for Van Avermaet, the Team will not comment further on the matter at the present time."