UEFA Hands Yeray Álvarez 10-Month Ban Over Doping Test
UEFA has handed Athletic Club defender Yeray Álvarez a ten-month suspension after he tested positive during an anti-doping check conducted following the Europa League semi-final clash against Manchester United in May.
In its ruling, the European football body acknowledged that the 29-year-old had no intention of enhancing his performance, but emphasized that athletes remain fully responsible for what enters their system.
“While there was no proven intent to dope, players are reminded that it is their duty to ensure every substance they consume complies with the rules,” UEFA stated.
Investigations showed that Álvarez had unknowingly ingested the banned substance while using preventive medication for hair loss.
Reacting to the decision back in July, Álvarez admitted fault and accepted the punishment in a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) page.
The ban officially began on June 2, 2025, when he was provisionally suspended, and will keep him out of competitive action until April 2, 2026. However, he will be cleared to resume training with teammates from February 2, 2026.
Álvarez’s absence is a major setback for Athletic Club, especially as they battle in the Champions League this season. The Basque side faces a tough group stage test against Paris Saint-Germain on December 10.
