Mamadou Sakho: Liverpool defender has alleged failed drug test dismissed by Uefa
Sakho served a 30-day ban and missed the European Championship after an alleged anti-doping violation
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Your support makes all the difference.Mamadou Sahko’s case against an alleged anti-doping violation has been dismissed, leaving the Liverpool defender to return to action after serving a 30-day suspension and missing Euro 2016 for France, Uefa have confirmed.
The European governing body met earlier this week to discuss the alleged failed drug test that Sakho provided earlier this season, with the France international accused of using a fat-loss substance that was prohibited.
However, Uefa have confirmed that proceedings against the 26-year-old defender have been dismissed, leaving him free to play ahead of the new season, after Uefa launched an investigation into whether the substance that Sakho tested positive for after Liverpool’s Europa League tie at Manchester United last March should even be on the prohibited list.
A Uefa statement read: "The independent Uefa control, ethics and disciplinary Body (CEDB) met in Paris and has reached a decision relating to the proceedings instigated against Liverpool player Mamadou Sakho, following the Europa League round of 16 second-leg match between Manchester United and Liverpool 1-1), played on 17 March 2016.
"The proceedings against Mr Sakho related to a violation of the Uefa Anti-Doping Regulations after the player failed a doping test at the above-mentioned match. Following a hearing with the lawyers of the player and experts of the Wada-accredited laboratories on this case, the CEDB has decided to dismiss the case."
Sakho said on Friday night: "I'm happy that it's finally over. It’s been difficult for me but I knew I had done nothing wrong. I am looking forward to getting back in the team and playing again."
A Liverpool club statement added: “Liverpool Football Club welcomes today’s decision from Uefa to dismiss the case against Mamadou Sakho, confirming that he did not commit any doping violation.
“We are pleased for Mamadou that he can now resume his playing career.”
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