Key Takeaways
- The Ukrainian winger received a four-year suspension after failing a drugs test while on international duty in November 2024
- CAS confirmed the appeal was filed in February, but officials have not yet scheduled a hearing date
- If the appeal succeeds, the 25-year-old could return to the pitch next year rather than waiting until December 2028
Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk has formally challenged his four-year playing ban at the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The Football Association handed down the suspension after the player failed a routine drugs test last year.
The 25-year-old has not appeared in a competitive clash since November 2024. He tested positive while representing Ukraine on the international stage. Reports indicate that traces of meldonium, a substance that increases stamina, were discovered in his sample.
CAS released a statement on Wednesday confirming receipt of the appeal. The documents were submitted in February. Both parties are currently exchanging written submissions, though a hearing date remains unconfirmed.
If the ban stands, Mudryk cannot return to the pitch until December 2028. However, a successful challenge could see him resume his career next year.
The FA has kept full details of the case private and refuses to comment during ongoing proceedings. Sources suggest the player received the maximum penalty available under anti-doping regulations.
When the provisional suspension began, Mudryk stated the result came as a complete shock. He maintains he has done nothing wrong. Chelsea issued a statement supporting their player, insisting he never knowingly used banned substances.
Regulation 77 of the FA’s anti-doping policy permits a four-year ban in specific circumstances. This applies to non-specified substances unless the athlete proves the violation was accidental. It also covers specified substances where the FA can establish deliberate use.
Mudryk joined Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023 in a deal that could eventually reach £89 million. He has scored ten goals in 73 matches across all competitions but struggled to secure a regular starting spot prior to the suspension.
Both the club and the FA have refused to discuss the latest developments. They insist the legal process must run its course without outside interference.