Omloop Het Nieuwsblad runner-up suspended over violation of anti-doping rules

The Winspace Orange Seal team has announced the suspension of Aurela Nerlo. The Polish rider has tested positive for an anabolic steroid and has been taken out of competition for the time being.

"It is with great disappointment that we inform you of the confirmation of Aurela Nerlo's positive result for LGD-4033. Our policy is one of zero tolerance, while also respecting the athlete and the process," the team wrote on social media. The Polish rider has tested positive for Ligandrol in a test she underwent right before the Tour de France Femmes where she had been scheduled to race.

"The situation is a great disappointment for the team, the riders, and the entire staff. We would like to remind that Aurela herself spontaneously informed us upon receiving the notification of the first adverse analytical finding on July 24, 2025. She has since expressed her shock and mentioned the possibility of an involuntary contamination related to the use of supplements or anti-inflammatory treatments used to treat a knee injury."

The 27-year old finished second at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad this winter, most notably having been talked of due to her kilometer-long sprint that awarded her breakaway companion Lotte Claes.

"Our policy is based on zero tolerance for doping. But also on the belief that every athlete deserves to be heard and supported during such difficult times. High-level sport demands absolute rigorous, but also humanity and respect. We hope that Aurela will be able to shed full light on this matter as part of the disciplinary procedure that has been initiated."