Argentina World Cup winner, Papu Gomez has broken his silence regarding doping findings that led to a two-year ban from football.
A drug called Terbutaline, used to treat breathing difficulties, was found in a sample taken from Gomez while he was playing for Sevilla in October 2022.
Both the Argentine winger and his club at the time, Sevilla, were informed about the failed test several months ago, but the player only received his punishment last week.
Following his spell with Atalanta between 2014 and 2021, he has recently joined Monza in Italy.
He took to Instagram on Sunday to address his punishment and assert his innocence regarding the use of Terbutaline.
‘I have been notified of the suspension of my license for two years by the Anti-Doping Sanctioning Committee of the Spanish Commission for the Fight Against Doping in Sports. I have always adhered strictly to all regulations and vehemently opposed doping in sports,’ he stated.
‘I have never resorted to any prohibited practices,’ he added.
The 35-year-old seemed to imply that he had inadvertently ingested the drug and has yet to confirm if he will appeal the ban.
‘The alleged violation is a result of accidentally consuming a spoonful of my son’s cough syrup which contained Terbutaline,’ expressed Gomez.
‘It is important to note that Terbutaline is permitted for professional athletes for therapeutic use, and it does not enhance football performance in any way.’
‘Leaving aside the substantive issues, I have entrusted my legal matters to my lawyers due to discrepancies in the handling of the disciplinary process,’ he explained.
‘I would like to express my gratitude for all the support and encouragement I’ve received during these challenging times in my professional career.’
