Paul Pogba to Challenge Doping Ban Following Positive Test Results

Paul Pogba, the Juventus star, has been suspended from soccer for four years after testing positive for a banned substance in August 2023, as announced by Reuters on Thursday. Italy's national anti-doping tribunal (NADO Italia) provisionally suspended him in September last year.

NADO Italia reported that testosterone was found in the midfielder's system after Juventus defeated Udinese 3-0, following the provisional ban. Pogba, who was on the bench as an unused substitute during the match, is facing the allegations of using the substance to improve athletic endurance.

In response to Thursday's decision, Pogba announced that he will appeal the ban, vehemently denying any intention to enhance his performance. He emphasized that he would never engage in such practices.

The French midfielder expressed his disbelief in the decision of the Tribunale Nazionale Antidoping on Instagram, stating that he believes the verdict is incorrect.

He further conveyed his feelings of sadness, shock, and heartbreak over the loss of everything he has worked for in his professional playing career. Despite this setback, he maintained his innocence, emphasizing that he has never knowingly or deliberately taken any supplements that would violate anti-doping regulations. He also mentioned that the full story will be revealed once he is free of legal restrictions.

I have never used banned substances or disrespected fellow athletes and supporters while competing as a professional athlete for any team, either for or against.

I will be appealing the decision that was announced today to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

NADO Italia declined to comment when contacted by CNN Sport following Pogba’s suspension Thursday.

CNN has reached out to Juventus and Pogba’s agency for comment.

CNN’s Sammy Mncwabe contributed to reporting.

Editor's P/S:

The news of Paul Pogba's four-year suspension is deeply saddening. As a football enthusiast, I have always admired his exceptional talent and dedication on the pitch. It is distressing to see such a promising career come to an abrupt halt due to allegations of doping.

However, it is crucial to remember that Pogba has vehemently denied any wrongdoing and has vowed to appeal the decision. I respect his determination to clear his name and hope that the full truth will emerge in due course. The integrity of the sport must be upheld, but it is equally important to ensure that justice is served fairly.