Paralympics: Australian cyclist Gallagher receives doping ban

Australia's two-time Paralympic cycling gold medallist Michael Gallagher has tested positive for the blood booster EPO and been provisionally suspended by the Australian Paralympic Committee, anti-doping agency ASADA said on Friday.

The Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority said Gallagher, 37, was tested out-of-competition at a training camp held in Italy in July. His 'A' sample tested positive for erythropoietin (EPO).

The test was coordinated by ASADA as part of a comprehensive pre-Rio anti-doping programme to ensure the integrity of the Australian Paralympic team.

Gallagher, who is a C5 classified athlete, won gold in the individual pursuit at the 2008 and 2012 Paralympics.

The provisional suspension is effective immediately and means Gallagher will not compete at this month's Paralympics in Rio and was announced shortly before the Australian team left for Rio.

"The Australian Paralympic Committee fiercely supports the fight against doping in sport and this is a reminder to all athletes that they will be caught if they do not comply with the rules, regardless of intent," team chef de mission Kate McLoughlin said in a statement.

ASADA said it has notified Gallagher of his rights in this process and will continue its investigation of the matter.