(CNN) — The International Ice Hockey Federation has suspended Washington Capitals ahead Evgeny Kuznetsov for testing positive for cocaine.
The medication is prohibited under the World Anti-Doping Code.
“Recently, the IIHF told me this, due to a positive test for a prohibited substance, I’d be suspended from international competition for several years,” Kuznetsov said in a statement. “I have made the decision to accept this penalty. Representing my country has been really near my own heart and something that I take so much pride inside. Not having the ability to put that sweater on for a long time is quite tough to take.”
Kuznetsov is going to likely be ineligible for four years, with his suspension finishing on June 12, 2023. He had been suspended on June 13.
“We are aware of the positive test outcome and associated global sanction that has been enforced on Evgeny Kuznetsov,” the Washington Capitals said in a statement. “We are disappointed with this growth and accept this occurrence seriously.
“Additionally, we are committed to ensuring he has the necessary support necessary to work through this situation.”
Cocaine isn’t thought to be a performance-enhancing drug in the NHL and is not illegal under the Performance Enhancing Substances Program of the NHL.
“We understand that Mr. Kuznetsov has voluntarily sought help through the instruction and counselling program provided for in the NHL and NHLPA collective bargaining agreement, and it has agreed to some regular testing protocol concerning his participation with that application,” NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly said in a statement.
Daly states that Kuznetsov has agreed to a meeting with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, on whether any further actions are required which no decisions have been made.
“I’ve disappointed so many people who are important for me, like my loved ones, teammates and buddies,” Kuznetsov said. “From the first day that I took the ice in D.C., the Washington Capitals organization and our fans are nothing but great to me and my family. I feel absolutely awful for letting you all down. I realize the only method I will win you back would be to take ownership of my situation as well as my actions from this point forward.”
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