A new twist in Mudryk's doping case

The Football Association of England (FA) may disqualify Ukrainian Mykhailo Mudryk even if he fails the B test, journalist Ben Jacobs writes. At the same time, the Chelsea midfielder remains on the club's application for the UEFA Conference League despite his suspension.

The B sample, taken at the same time as the A sample, is tested not only for meldonium but also for other substances. However, even if it turns out to be negative, the FA has the right to impose a penalty based on one positive A sample. In this case, the period of ineligibility is likely to be reduced.

If a B sample confirms the presence of a banned substance, the standard penalty is a four-year suspension unless the athlete can prove that there was a mistake or third-party interference.

Mudryk denies intentional doping. However, anti-doping rules hold athletes fully responsible for the substances that enter their bodies.

As a reminder, Mudryk tested positive for doping after one of his matches at the end of October last year, after which he was no longer included in his club's application. Traces of meldonium were found in his body.

Mykhailo himself confirmed that the test showed the presence of a banned substance. Our compatriot said that he was shocked by the results because he had never used doping. It also became known that Mudryk was suspended from training at the club's base in Cobham.

According to media reports, meldonium got into Mykhailo Mudryk's body through an injection he received in the Ukrainian national team.

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