Papu Gomez Maintains Innocence In FIFA's Anti-Doping Ban
Papu Gomez has maintained his innocence after he was banned by FIFA for two years over a doping violation.
Gomez, who won the FIFA World Cup in Qatar last year with Argentina, has been accused of taking the banned substance Terbutaline while playing for Sevilla last season.
Gomez only joined Monza last month after leaving Sevilla and had made two substitute appearances for his new side.
The 35-year-old says an accidental consumption of a cough syrup meant for his son led to terbutaline getting into his system and has instructed his lawyers to look into the matter.
In a statement on Instagram on Sunday, Gomez said: “Following recent stories written about my possible violation of the anti-doping rules, I wish to inform the media and public opinion of the following:
“1) I confirm that I received word from the Spanish anti-doping commission that my licence is suspended for a period of two years.
“2) I always not just rigorously respected all the rules, but also stood up as a strong defender of clean sport and sporting behaviour, condemning categorically any forms of doping.
“3) I never, nor do I intend to, relied on a banned practice.
“4) The presumed violation originates from the presence of Terbutaline in my system, which I accidentally ingested with a spoonful of cough syrup for my son, to alleviate his cough. It is important to specify that Terbutaline is allowed for professional athletes and in no way does it improve performance in football.
“5) Without getting into the situation, I have asked my lawyers to look into the suggestion the disciplinary case was not treated according to the norms.
“6) I finally wish to thank all those who showed me affection and support during these difficult moments of my professional life.”
