Two Uzbek Athletes Temporarily Suspended from Asian Games due to Doping Tests

Two athletes from Uzbekistan have been temporarily suspended from the Asian Games due to positive doping test results. This was announced by the International Testing Agency (ITA).

In out-of-competition tests taken in Japan, trimetazidine was found in canoeist Pavel Eygel's sample (sample from September 23), and meldonium was found in mixed martial artist Nodirbek Shavkatov's sample (sample from September 22). Both substances are included in the S4 category of the WADA prohibited list ("Hormones and Metabolic Modulators") and are banned both during and outside of competitions.

According to the rules of the World Anti-Doping Code and the Olympic Council of Asia, the athletes have been suspended until the investigation is completed. They are prohibited from competing, training, and participating in any sports activity within the framework of the Asian Games. Meanwhile, Shavkatov had previously won a bronze medal in the up to 71 kg weight category.

The athletes have the right to request the opening and analysis of sample B, as well as to appeal the temporary suspension to the Anti-Doping Division of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS ADD). Until the ITA processes are completed, the agency refrains from further comments.