Mudryk Challenges FA Ban at Court of Arbitration for Sport
Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk has escalated his dispute against a Football Association (FA) drugs ban by appealing to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The 25-year-old Ukraine international has been sidelined for nearly 18 months following an "adverse finding in a routine urine test," which resulted in a provisional suspension imposed in December 2024.
In June 2025, the FA formally charged Mudryk; however, it has not publicly clarified whether he has received a definitive ban or remains under provisional suspension.
CAS, based in Switzerland, confirmed to :
"Cas confirms it has received an appeal by Mykhailo Mudryk against the FA, filed on 25 February 2026."
"The parties are currently exchanging written submissions, and a hearing is yet to be scheduled."
Details of the Case and Background
According to BBC sources, Mudryk reportedly came into contact with meldonium, a cardiovascular drug known to enhance respiratory capacity and stamina, while representing the Ukraine national team in October 2024.
Mudryk joined Chelsea in January 2023 for an initial fee of €70 million (£61 million). His last competitive appearance for the club was in November 2024 during an away match against Heidenheim in the Conference League.
Upon the announcement of his provisional suspension, Mudryk issued a public statement expressing his reaction:
"I was in complete shock and have never knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules."
Legal Representation and Current Status
Mudryk is represented by Morgan Sports Law, a firm notable for handling high-profile doping cases, including those of former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba during his Juventus tenure, as well as boxer Tyson Fury and cyclist Chris Froome.
The player aims to resume his football career within the current year. To maintain fitness, he has been training with a private coach at non-league club Uxbridge FC and has engaged goalkeepers for training purposes.
Chelsea have refrained from commenting publicly, opting to await the conclusion of the legal process. Both the FA and Mudryk's legal representatives have been approached for further statements.
