Mykhailo Mudryk is appealing a four-year doping ban imposed by the Football Association (FA), hoping to return to football before the December 2028 eligibility date. The appeal was lodged with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on February 25, 2026.
Mudryk has faced significant challenges since being provisionally suspended in December 2024 after testing positive for the prohibited substance meldonium during international duty. He has been sidelined for nearly 18 months and has not played a competitive match since November 2024.
The FA charged Mudryk in June 2025, resulting in a maximum four-year ban. If his appeal fails, he would remain ineligible until December 2028. In his defense, Mudryk maintains his innocence, stating he has “never knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules.” He described his situation as a complete shock.
Chelsea FC, which signed him from Shakhtar Donetsk for an initial fee of £88 million in January 2023, has declined to comment on the ongoing case. Meanwhile, the FA has not disclosed further details regarding the case and has also refused to comment.
As the appeal process unfolds, reactions from fans and pundits vary widely. Many supporters express hope for Mudryk’s return, while others emphasize the importance of adhering to FA regulations regarding doping.
