MENDE, March 11, 2010 (AFP) – The Polish brothers, Kacper and Pawel Szczepaniak, have tested positive for EPO during the Cyclo-Cross Worlds, it was announced Thursday the International Cycling Union (UCI).

The Poles have been temporarily suspended, pending their hearing by their national federation to open disciplinary proceedings against them.

“The abnormal results came directly from the urine tests conducted after the race,” said the UCI. “Blood samples collected before the event of Pawel and Kacper Szczepaniak have also previously shown, under the biological passport, the blood profile of these two racers was doubtful.

Pawel Szczepaniak, who on March 22 is to celebrate his 21st birthday, usually carries the colors of the Belgian Fidea which specializes in cyclocross. He also won this winter the silver medal at the European Championships in the discipline.

His younger brother, who is a year younger (he was born November 21, 1990). Both brothers were wearing the jersey of the Polish national team at the World Championships.

The bronze medalist, Arnaud Jouffroy, can be declared the winner at the end of the procedure and confirmation of doping of the Szczepaniak brothers.