Belgian authorities open probe into cycling doctor

BRUSSELS (AP) - Authorities have opened a judicial inquiry into Dr. Geert Leinders, who has worked for the Rabobank and Team Sky cycling teams.

The prosecutor's office in Dendermonde on Monday refused to give additional information on the probe, which started after a Dutch newspaper claimed that Leinders played a key role in alleged doping practices at the former Rabobank team.

The Belgian physician has denied any involvement to the local cycling authorities. The report in the NRC Handelsblad in the Netherlands was based on statements by American rider Levi Leipheimer, a Rabobank cyclist from 2002-04.

Team Sky said Leinders was hired on a freelance basis late in 2010 but has left the team.