Brazil striker Gabriel Barbosa has pledged to clear his name after being banned for two years following a doping fraud investigation.
The Flamengo forward – known as ‘Gabigol’ – has been banned from two years effective from the date of his alleged violation, which occurred on April 8, 2023.
Brazilian media have reported Barbosa behaved erratically when selected for a surprise drugs test one day before Flamengo lost 4-1 to Fluminense in the second leg of the Campeonato Carioca final.
Read our other football news stories here:
Wales v Poland: Page expects Red Wall to play ‘massive role’ in Euro 2024 play-off
Lionel Messi: Di Maria calls for ‘calm’ over injury to Argentina forward
Brazil star Endrick: Dream Wembley winner just like a video game
Barbosa allegedly ignored anti-doping officers upon their arrival at the club’s training ground before taking his test hours after his team-mates.
The 27-year-old – who has 18 senior international caps – can appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), and he denies all allegations of doping fraud.
“I have never attempted to obstruct or defraud any test, and I trust that I will be cleared by the higher court,” he said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“Since the beginning of my career as a footballer, I have always followed the rules of the game and never used banned substances.
— Gabriel Barbosa (@gabigol) March 25, 2024
“I have been subjected to dozens of tests, all of which have always been negative.
“I am disappointed with the outcome of the judgement, but I will continue cooperating with the sporting authorities and trust that my innocence will be proven and re-established by the higher court.”
The 2024 Brazilian Serie A season runs from April 14 to December 8, meaning Barbosa is currently set to miss the entire campaign before returning for the 2025 season.
Flamengo have pledged to assist Barbosa in his appeal, saying; “There was no fraud, not even an attempt, to justify the punishment applied.”
