Paul Pogba set for 2025 comeback as doping ban reduces to 18 months

France international and World Cup-winning midfielder, Paul Pogba, has had his four-year doping ban reduced to 18 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), allowing him to return to football much sooner than expected.

Pogba, who initially faced the possibility of early retirement, can now begin training with Juventus in January 2025 and resume playing in official matches by March.

Pogba’s suspension, which began on September 11, 2023, was imposed after he tested positive for DHEA, a banned substance known for its testosterone-boosting properties.

However, CAS ruled that the substance primarily affects females, confirming that Pogba’s use was unintentional.

This ruling not only shortens Pogba’s ban but also overturns the €5,000 fine initially imposed on him.

The case took a crucial turn when an American clinic, 10X Health Systems, was cited in Pogba’s appeal, with photographic evidence linking the clinic to the supplements he consumed.

The reduction in his ban brings an end to months of uncertainty for the 31-year-old midfielder, who had consistently maintained his innocence, asserting that he would never deliberately use performance-enhancing substances.

Football pundit Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development on social media, stating, “Paul Pogba will be back to action in 2025, confirmed!”

Pogba’s representatives and CAS have yet to release public statements, but the decision paves the way for the Juventus star to begin planning his long-awaited return to the pitch.