On 21 November 2015 the French Federation for Public Physical Education (UFOLEP) Appeal Panel decided to impose a 3 month period of ineligibility on the cyclist after he tested positive for the prohibited substance Betamethasone.
Hereafter the French Anti-Doping Agency (AFLD) reopened the case against the Athlete. Following notification the Athlete filed a statement in his defence.
The Athlete admitted the violation and denied the intentional use of the substance. He explained with evidence that he underwent medical treatment for his dental infenction and that he had used Célestène (Betamethasone) tablets prescribed by his dentist.
The AFLD determines that:
- The Athlete committed an anti-doping rule violation;
- He underwent legitimate medical treatment for his dental infection;
- There was a medical justification for the prescribed substance;
- He mentioned his medication on the Doping Control Form;
- His use of the prescribed medication was consistent with the concentration found in his sample;
Therefore the AFLD decides on 3 February 2016 to annul the UFOLEP Appeal Decision and for the acquittal of the Athlete.
