Gabriel Barbosa, who plays for the Brazilian League side Flamengo, has been handed a 2-year ban from football.
According to reports in the national press, the 27-year-old forward, known as "Gabigol," arrived late for a doping test on April 8, 2023, and refused to comply with the instructions.
It was stated that Barbosa also acted disrespectfully toward the officials and was sentenced to a 2-year ban, effective from April 8, 2023.
"I HAVE NEVER USED ANY BANNED SUBSTANCES"
In a statement on his social media account, the Brazilian footballer defended his innocence, saying, "I have never attempted to obstruct or cheat on any tests. I have always followed the rules of the game and have never used any banned substances."
Flamengo Club also announced that it received the decision with surprise and would appeal the penalty to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Barbosa, who has also played for Santos, Inter, and Benfica in his career, has appeared in 18 matches for the Brazil National Team.
News Source: 12punto
