What happened to Paul Pogba? The football world was shocked when the star midfielder, known for his incredible skills and flair, was banned from the sport. But why?
Well, it all started back in August 2023. After a match, Pogba underwent a routine drug test, and the results came back positive for a banned substance: testosterone. More specifically, it was DHEA, a compound that can naturally increase testosterone levels in the body.
Even though Pogba didn’t play in that specific game, being on the bench made him subject to testing. When the initial test came back positive in September 2023, he was provisionally suspended. He then requested a second test, called a counter-analysis, but those results also confirmed the presence of the banned substance.
Italian anti-doping prosecutors then sought the maximum penalty. Pogba chose not to make a plea bargain, meaning his case went before Italy’s anti-doping court. On February 29, 2024, the verdict was delivered: a four-year ban from football. This is the standard ban under the World Anti-Doping Code.
This ban is a huge blow to his career, as it means he won’t be able to play until August 2027, when he’ll be 34 years old. Pogba has stated he believes the verdict is “incorrect” and plans to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, also known as CAS.
So, why is testosterone banned? While the body produces it naturally, external or increased amounts can give an athlete an unfair advantage, potentially boosting endurance, muscle mass, and even concentration. The anti-doping rules are in place to ensure fair play and protect the integrity of sports.
What happens next depends on his appeal. If successful, the ban could be reduced. But for now, Paul Pogba, a World Cup winner, faces a long period away from the game he loves.