French football star Paul Pogba has expressed his relief and joy after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) reduced his doping ban from four years to 18 months. The Juventus midfielder had been handed the original suspension by the Italian National Anti-Doping Tribunal in February 2023, after testing positive for elevated testosterone levels following a Juventus-Udinese match in August 2022.
Pogba took to social media on Friday to react to the decision, posting a picture of his feet in personalized football boots, proudly showing his initials, the French flag, and two stars to represent France’s World Cup victories. “Finally, the nightmare is over,” Pogba said in his post. “I can look forward to the day when I can follow my dreams again,” he added, as reported by sports journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Throughout the doping saga, Pogba has consistently maintained his innocence. He explained that the elevated testosterone levels came from a food supplement prescribed by a doctor in the United States, which he unknowingly consumed. “I always stated that I never knowingly breached anti-doping regulations. I play with integrity, and I want to thank the Court of Arbitration who heard my explanation,” Pogba said in a statement.
Pogba’s new suspension will be in effect from September 11, 2023, meaning he will be eligible to return to competitive football on March 11, 2025, just before his 32nd birthday. Reflecting on this difficult period, Pogba called it one of the toughest challenges of his career. “This has been a hugely distressing period in my life because everything I’ve worked so hard for has been put on hold,” he said. He also expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering support he has received from fans and loved ones, saying, “Thank you for all the love and support.”
The CAS spokesperson confirmed the reduction in Pogba’s suspension, stating, “An 18-month suspension with effect from 11 September 2023. The reasons for the decision will follow later.”
Also Read:
- Lamine Yamal Reveals Playing Football with Dogs in Early Days
- Paul Pogba ventures into film while serving football ban
- Lassana Diarra Wins Landmark Court Case Against FIFA
Pogba had originally been suspended in September 2023 after a provisional ban. At the time, the footballer was devastated by the decision and publicly shared his feelings of heartbreak. “I am sad, shocked, and heartbroken that everything I have built in my professional playing career has been taken away from me,” he had posted earlier.
A key player in France’s 2018 World Cup-winning squad and a four-time Serie A champion with Juventus, Pogba has already set his sights on his comeback. “I can’t wait to get back on the pitch!” he said, as he looks forward to returning to competitive football and continuing his storied career.
The reduced ban brings hope for Pogba’s future, allowing him to rejoin the game he loves sooner than originally expected. Fans and supporters will eagerly anticipate his return, as Pogba aims to rebuild his career and continue making an impact in football.