According to Yahoo Sports, Paul Pogba's anti-doping hearing, initially scheduled for January 18, has been postponed to an unspecified date.
This decision was made following a request from Pogba's legal team, which Italy's anti-doping tribunal accepted.
The Juventus midfielder, a former Manchester United player and a key figure in France's 2018 World Cup victory, faces a potentially significant ban.
Postponement and Legal Proceedings
The context of this hearing traces back to an incident in September, where Pogba was provisionally suspended after testing positive for testosterone.
This led to prosecutors calling for a four-year ban for the player in December. However, Pogba can reduce the length of this ban. If he can demonstrate that the doping was unintentional, the ban could be cut in half.
Moreover, if Pogba can prove that the banned substance was consumed out of competition and did not enhance his performance, the suspension might be reduced to just a few months.
Pogba's representatives have previously stated that the testosterone detected in his system came from a food supplement prescribed by a doctor he consulted in the United States.
Currently, neither Pogba's representatives nor the tribunal have made any further comments regarding the new hearing date or the case specifics.
Potential Outcomes for Pogba
This situation highlights the stringent anti-doping regulations in sports and the severe consequences athletes face if found in violation.
The outcome of Pogba's case will be closely watched, as it could have significant implications for his future career and reputation.