Azerbaijani wrestler Aslan Abakarov, who has been handed a three-year doping suspension, reportedly took medication without consulting a team doctor.
The Azerbaijan Wrestling Federation confirmed the information to Report, stating that Abakarov tested positive for a banned substance following the 2024 Azerbaijan Wrestling Championship, Idman.biz reports.
Abakarov earned a bronze medal in the freestyle 97 kg category at the national tournament held at the Baku Sports Palace. After the competition, officials from AMADA (Azerbaijan National Anti-Doping Agency) collected samples from all athletes, including Abakarov. His test later returned positive.
Despite filing an appeal, the wrestler’s explanation was not accepted. He claimed he had fallen ill and, while in Russia, took medicine prescribed by a local doctor — unaware it contained a banned substance.
The Federation emphasized that all national team members are required to consult the team doctor before taking any medication. "Permission must be obtained before using any treatment," the statement noted. "We regularly hold seminars in cooperation with AMADA to educate athletes on updated doping lists and banned substances. Those who fail to follow these guidelines face serious consequences."
They added that it is encouraging no leading national team athletes have encountered doping violations in recent years.
Aslan Abakarov was suspended for 36 months for the presence and use (or attempted use) of prohibited substances or methods. His ban, which began on February 7, 2025, will be in effect until February 7, 2028.
Idman.biz
