Purcell suspended for 18 months for doping

Max Purcell was provisionally suspended for receiving intravenous vitamin infusions of more than 500 ml on December 16 and 20, 2023, while the limit was 100 ml within a 12-hour period.

His sanction has been announced: the Australian is suspended for 18 months and will be able to return on June 12, 2026 (as he has already served 4 months).

Here is his statement: "As announced by the ITIA, I have accepted an 18-month suspension period with a loss of my tournament earnings from December 16, 2023, to February 3, 2024.

This case has been ongoing for months and has seriously affected my quality of life. I have only cooperated with the ITIA. I am happy that it is over and that I can finally move on.

The ITIA has acknowledged that my infusion beyond the 100 ml was not intentional. I accepted the mistake I made and will be more cautious about matters affecting the integrity of the sport.

Those who know me know that I take my anti-doping obligations very seriously. I will be able to return to competition starting June 12, 2026.

I am excited for this challenge and hope you will be there for my return. I wanted to thank everyone for their support, it means a lot to me.

Tune in when chapter 2 arrives."