The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has decided to reduce the suspension of Paul Pogba from four years to eighteen months, allowing the Juventus midfielder to return to competition in March 2025. Pogba was initially suspended by the National Anti-Doping Tribunal of Italy (NADO Italia) in September 2023 after a positive test dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a substance banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The decision was made official following an appeal from the player, who has always denied having taken this substance intentionally.
“The nightmare is over”
In a statement published on his social networks, Paul Pogba expressed his relief: “Finally the nightmare is over. Following the decision of the Court of Arbitration for Sport, I can now look forward to the day when I can pursue my dreams again. I play with integrity, and although I have to accept that it is “an offense of strict liability, I would like to thank the CAS judges who listened to my explanations.” He also added that this time was extremely trying for him as everything he had worked so hard for was put on hold. “Thanks again for all the love and support. I can’t wait to get back on the pitch.”
Pogba has always explained that he did not want to take drugs
The case began in August 2023, when the midfielder tested positive after Juventus’ first match against Udinese. The test revealed testosterone metabolites of exogenous origin, leading Italian authorities to impose a four-year suspension, the standard sanction for this type of offense. However, Pogba has always maintained that he never intentionally took the substance and explained that the presence of DHEA came from a supplement prescribed by a doctor.
With this reduction in sanction, Pogba can be reinstated at Juventus before the end of the season. This represents a chance to relaunch his career, seriously damaged by injuries and complications linked to this doping affair. Remaining under contract with the Turin club, he now hopes to regain his place on the pitch and help his team in the race for European places.
Although he remains marked by this ordeal, Pogba seems determined to turn the page and come back even stronger.
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