Michel Hessman's doping case remains unresolved: "The ball is in the court of the German anti-doping agency"

Michel Hessmann, rider of the soon-to-be Team Visma | Lease a Bike, is still sitting on a limbo when it comes to his pro career. The German rider tested positive for a diuretic in mid-June, but there hasn't yet been a decision on whether he will receive a suspension or not.

"I would like clarity, but especially Michel wants clarity. Michel is a young rider who may have to see his dreams of a professional career fall apart," Team Visma | Lease a Bike CEO Richard Plugge told Sporza. "The ball is in the court of the German anti-doping agency, NADA. But the fact that it takes so long is frustrating for everyone."

Over six months have already past but still there is no call from the German doping authorities. Hessmann took part in the Giro d'Italia where he assisted Primoz Roglic into winning the race, and a few weeks later tested positive for a diuretic medicine.

He hasn't raced since for the Dutch team, however his contract remains until the end of 2024. Until there is a decision on the case, he will most likely remain with the team as he was an upcoming talent in the field of stage-having finished on the podium of the 2022 Tour de l'Avenir.