UEFA to Introduce Doping Tests in Champions League

UEFA have announced they will introduce blood tests for players in all competitions run by the federation as they attempt to crack down on doping.

European football’s governing body will introduce the rule in time for the coming season, having only conducted the tests at international tournaments Euro 2008 and 2012 previously.

This month will see players in the Champions League and Europa League take part in the tests but out-of-competition checks will only happen if players or teams do not inform testers where they will be when required for a test.

In a UEFA anti-doping panel meeting held at the end of 2012, chairman Dr. Jacques Lienard said: “We cannot say that football is free of doping. It is important UEFA remains vigilant in its fight against doping and all products that are associated with doping.”

UEFA anti-doping assistant Richard Grisdale gave a blunt warning to players as they prepared for the European Women’s Under-17 Championship.

“If you make a mistake or don’t know the rules and you test positive, you will be banned. You will suffer. Your team can suffer,” he said.