In January 2023 World Rugby reported an anti-doping rule violation against the Chilean rugby player Joaquin Huici Espinosa after his sample - provided in South Africa in Septermber 2022 - tested positive for the prohibited substances 19-norandrosterone and 19-noretiocholanolone (Nandrolone).
Prior in October 2022 the South American Sports Organization (ODESUR) had also had reported that the Athlete's sample - provided in Paraguay in October 2022 - tested positive for Nandrolone.
Following notification a provisional suspension was ordered by ODESUR. Thereupon in February 2023 the Athlete admitted to ODESUR the intentional use of the substance to aid recovery from a shoulder injury.
Hereafter in June 2023 Word Rugby commenced separate proceedings against the Athlete for the presence and use of Nandrolone. In July 2023 the Athlete timely admitted the violation, waived his right for a hearing and accepted the sanction proposed by World Rugby.
World Rugby deems that the Athlete's violation was intentional and determines that he shall receive a 1 year reduction for his timely admission of the anti-doping rule violation.
Therefore World Rugby decides on 14 July 2023 to impose a 3 year period of ineligibililty on the Athlete, starting on the date of the provisional suspension imposed by ODESUR, i.e. on 25 October 2023.
