Relieved Lee handed backdated doping ban
Updated: 2015-04-27 16:47
(Agencies)
|
|||||||||||
Malaysia's Lee Chong Wei looks on during a news conference in Bangkok November 21, 2014. [Photo/Agencies] |
KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysian shuttler Lee Chong Wei was a relieved man on Monday after being handed a backdated eight-month ban for doping by the Badminton World Federation, leaving him free to go for gold at the Rio Olympics next year.
Lee tested positive test for dexamethasone at last year's world championships. Dexamethasone is an anti-inflammatory that does not enhance performance but is on the list of banned substances.
The 32-year-old could have been suspended for up to two years but will be eligible to compete again on Friday after he voluntarily stood down last year when he was first told about the positive sample.
The BWF said Lee had been negligent but the backdated sanction was "correct and fair".
"The panel is convinced this is not a case of doping with intent to cheat," the world governing body said in a statement.
The anti-inflammatory drug, which is prohibited in competition, was found on the casing of gelatin capsules of a food supplement that Lee was taking, the BWF said.
"I am of course relieved," Lee said in a news conference in Kuala Lumpur.
"I accept the result. I will review back, and maybe...will be stronger mentally for the competitions to come."
Lee, the winner of 55 titles around the world, had his case heard by a three-member panel in Amsterdam on April 11 and faced the prospect of a career-ending ban.
Related Stories
Lin Dan, Lee Chong Wei set up semifinal clash 2014-09-28 01:02
'Super Dan' vows all-out efforts in clash with Lee Chong Wei 2014-09-17 17:16
Lee Chong Wei vows to bounce back 2013-08-13 11:19
Lee Chong Wei secures five-time championship at Indonesia Open 2013-06-17 15:50
Today's Top News
China rescue team starts work in Nepal
At least 20 dead in Tibet following Nepal quake
Opinion: China leads in many high-speed rail aspects
Neighborly visits on border
China plays down capital exodus
The real Apple Watchon sale Friday in China
US strike inadvertently killed US, Italian hostages
Duties on rare earth exports to be ended
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
What do we know about AIIB |
Full coverage of Boao Forum for Asia |
Annual legislative and political advisory sessions |
Festival Special: Apps that make holiday shopping easier |
Listed firms caught in anti-corruption net |
Conca set to return to China |