Gurpegi's positive test confirmed
Monday, December 23, 2002
Article summary
Athletic Club Bilbao's Carlos Gurpegi's positive test for a banned steroid has been confirmed by a B sample.
Article body
Nandrolone found
Traces of the performance-enhancing drug were found in Gurpegi's bloodstream after the club's 4-2 defeat by Real Sociedad on the opening day of the Primera División season in September. This was initially made public on 11 December, with the second positive test being revealed today.
Club waiting
Bilbao have asked for full details of the analysis because they were not informed of the results until three months after the original test. The recommended interval is ten days. "Until we are given the full details we reserve the right to question the results we have been given," the club said.
Week to appeal
They added: "We would also like to reiterate that no product which knowingly contained nandrolone has been given to the player, nor taken by him." Bilbao now have a week to appeal to the Spanish Football Federation before a ruling is made.
Playing on
Gurpegi, 22, has played in every one of Bilbao's 15 league games this season, scoring four goals. It is his second campaign in the first team.
