Ukrainian soccer player tests positive for banned substance
Chelsea forward Mikhail Mudryk has been confirmed to have tested positive for doping, according to a statement from the club. Read Full Article at RT.com
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Chelsea forward Mikhail Mudryk faces the possibility of a suspension of up to four years after reportedly testing positive for a banned substance during a doping control test. Sources from Ukrainian media indicate that the Ukrainian international tested positive for mildronate, a drug typically used for heart conditions, after returning from national team duty in the UEFA Nations League in November.
Mildronate, an anti-ischemia medication, is known to enhance endurance and recovery. The World Anti-Doping Authority banned its use in January 2016, making it illegal for athletes at all times, both in and out of competition.
Chelsea confirmed on Tuesday that the English Football Association has contacted them regarding “an adverse finding” in Mudryk's urine test. The club stated that Mudryk "confirmed categorically that he has never knowingly used any banned substances" and expressed their commitment to "work with the relevant authorities" to uncover the cause of the test result.
Mudryk has not played in Chelsea’s last five Premier League matches and has been absent since November 28, with manager Enzo Maresca attributing his situation to illness. The 23-year-old took to Instagram to express his disbelief over the findings, asserting, “This has come as a complete shock as I have never knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules… I know that I have not done anything wrong and remain hopeful that I will be back on the pitch soon.” He emphasized his intention to collaborate with his team to investigate the matter.
In the meantime, Chelsea is reportedly conducting an inquiry into the issue while Mudryk awaits the results of a second urine sample. If this second sample also tests positive, under UK regulations, he could face a ban of up to four years, jeopardizing his participation in the 2026 World Cup with Ukraine. However, insiders informed The Athletic that there are suspicions of foul play related to Mudryk's test, an allegation currently under investigation.
Mudryk transferred to Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023 for a hefty €70 million, marking him as the sixth most expensive player in the club's history at that time.
Chelsea's head coach is set to address the media on Wednesday ahead of the club's next Conference League match, where he is expected to provide further updates regarding Mudryk's doping case. The FA policy stipulates that Mudryk will be provisionally suspended from participation in games until the investigation concludes.
Frederick R Cook for TROIB News
Mildronate, an anti-ischemia medication, is known to enhance endurance and recovery. The World Anti-Doping Authority banned its use in January 2016, making it illegal for athletes at all times, both in and out of competition.
Chelsea confirmed on Tuesday that the English Football Association has contacted them regarding “an adverse finding” in Mudryk's urine test. The club stated that Mudryk "confirmed categorically that he has never knowingly used any banned substances" and expressed their commitment to "work with the relevant authorities" to uncover the cause of the test result.
Mudryk has not played in Chelsea’s last five Premier League matches and has been absent since November 28, with manager Enzo Maresca attributing his situation to illness. The 23-year-old took to Instagram to express his disbelief over the findings, asserting, “This has come as a complete shock as I have never knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules… I know that I have not done anything wrong and remain hopeful that I will be back on the pitch soon.” He emphasized his intention to collaborate with his team to investigate the matter.
In the meantime, Chelsea is reportedly conducting an inquiry into the issue while Mudryk awaits the results of a second urine sample. If this second sample also tests positive, under UK regulations, he could face a ban of up to four years, jeopardizing his participation in the 2026 World Cup with Ukraine. However, insiders informed The Athletic that there are suspicions of foul play related to Mudryk's test, an allegation currently under investigation.
Mudryk transferred to Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023 for a hefty €70 million, marking him as the sixth most expensive player in the club's history at that time.
Chelsea's head coach is set to address the media on Wednesday ahead of the club's next Conference League match, where he is expected to provide further updates regarding Mudryk's doping case. The FA policy stipulates that Mudryk will be provisionally suspended from participation in games until the investigation concludes.
Frederick R Cook for TROIB News
