Why Was Athletic Bilbao's Defender Alvarez Suspended for 10 Months?
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Synopsis
Athletic Bilbao's defender Yeray Alvarez faces a 10-month suspension from UEFA after testing positive for a banned substance during the Europa League. His claim of unintentional ingestion through prescribed medication adds a layer of complexity to this situation. The implications for both Alvarez and his team are significant as they prepare for the Champions League season.
Key Takeaways
- Yeray Alvarez suspended for 10 months.
- Positive test for Canrenone after the Europa League.
- Alvarez claims unintentional ingestion via hair loss medication.
- Suspension starts from June 2, 2025.
- Bilbao aims for success in the Champions League.
Nyon, Sep 8 (NationPress) Athletic Bilbao's defender Yeray Alvarez has received a 10-month suspension following a positive doping test during the Europa League, as confirmed by UEFA on Monday.
The 30-year-old player tested positive for Canrenone, a substance prohibited both in and out of competition, after Bilbao's 3-0 loss to Manchester United in the semi-finals of the tournament in May.
Alvarez had previously accepted a provisional suspension on June 2. In July, he clarified the circumstances around the failed test, stating that the substance inadvertently entered his system through medication prescribed for hair loss. The Spaniard, who battled testicular cancer in 2016, mentioned that the treatment was part of his ongoing care for alopecia.
According to UEFA, during the meeting on August 19, 2025, the relevant disciplinary body decided to impose a 10-month ban on the player, effective from the date of the provisional suspension (i.e. June 2, 2025), concluding on April 2, 2026, for committing a non-intentional anti-doping rule violation.
Furthermore, as per Article 10.14.2 of the UEFA Anti-Doping Regulations, the player is allowed to return to training with a team or utilize club facilities in the final two months of his suspension, starting February 2, 2026.
This ban applies to all competitions and will conclude on April 2 of the following year. The 30-year-old centre-back had previously taken a hiatus from football in 2017 to receive treatment for testicular cancer. After his return, he began using medication for alopecia and indicated that his positive doping result was due to having “inadvertently taken a hair loss medication containing a banned substance.”
Meanwhile, Athletic Bilbao is set to compete in the Champions League this season after finishing fourth in La Liga.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this story with a balanced view. The case of Yeray Alvarez highlights the complexities surrounding doping regulations in sports. While the player's explanation raises valid concerns, it also underscores the importance of rigorous adherence to anti-doping rules, ensuring fair competition for all athletes.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What substance caused Alvarez's suspension?
Yeray Alvarez tested positive for Canrenone, a banned substance.
How long is Alvarez's suspension?
Alvarez has been suspended for 10 months.
When will Alvarez be eligible to return?
He will be eligible to return on April 2, 2026.
What did Alvarez say about the failed test?
He stated that the substance entered his system unintentionally through medication for hair loss.
What impact does this suspension have on Athletic Bilbao?
The suspension affects the team's defense as they prepare for the Champions League.
