In a significant development, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has reduced Paul Pogba’s four-year ban for doping violations to 18 months. This ruling paves the way for the Juventus midfielder to return to professional football in March 2025.

Background:

Pogba, 30, initially received a four-year ban from football after testing positive for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a banned substance. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) imposed the ban, which was set to keep Pogba out of the sport until 2027.

CAS Ruling:

Following Pogba’s appeal, CAS reduced the ban to 18 months, citing that the player had proven the doping was unintentional. This decision aligns with the World Anti-Doping Code, which allows for reduced sanctions in cases of uncontaminated or unintentional doping.

Pogba’s return will bolster Juventus’s midfield options for the second half of the season. His experience and skill will be crucial in the team’s bid for domestic and European success.

This ruling revives Pogba’s international career, making him eligible for France’s European Championship qualifiers and potential selection for the 2024 Olympics.

Paul Pogba’s ban reduction marks a significant turning point in his career. With his return to football imminent, all eyes will be on the talented midfielder as he seeks to reclaim his spot among the world’s top players.