Miguel Martins‘ Suspension Lifted After Negative Doping Test

In a significant turn of events in the doping case involving Portuguese handball player Miguel Martins, his suspension has been lifted after a negative B-sample test. The 27-year-old player is now eligible to participate in training and matches, as confirmed by his Danish club, Aalborg HB.

Martins was suspended by the International Handball Federation (IHF) on January 14 due to a positive doping test from a year prior, which kept him from competing in the World Championship. However, Aalborg received notification from the European Handball Federation (EHF) that the B-sample had returned negative, leading to the immediate revocation of his suspension.

„The exclusion was certainly a shock, and the last month has been incredibly tough for me and my family. I am extremely relieved that the B-test has proven my innocence, as I have always claimed,“ Martins expressed in a statement from his club.

The case garnered attention due to various discrepancies. According to the International Testing Agency (ITA), a sample taken from Martins on January 13, 2024, revealed an „abnormal analysis result regarding exogenous testosterone.“ However, the ITA is not responsible for doping tests at EHF tournaments; that role belongs to the EHF’s own anti-doping unit, which had previously tested Martins at the European Championship and reported a negative result.

Hans Holdhaus, head of the EHF’s anti-doping unit, stated, „The sample we have from him is from the European Championship, and it was negative.“ EHF Secretary General Martin Hausleitner added, „The ITA reopened the sample in March for reasons unknown.“

It remains uncertain whether Martins will pursue legal action for damages, as the situation could still lead to a legal aftermath. However, his club has indicated that he intends to focus on sports for now. Aalborg is scheduled to play against German champions SC Magdeburg in the Champions League next Wednesday, potentially with Martins back on the court.