UEFA laud doping control co-operation

Out-of competition doping controls in the 2008/09 UEFA Champions League group stage have passed smoothly, with UEFA welcoming the co-operation shown by the clubs and their players.

Over players
UEFA told the clubs that since the start of the group phase, a total of 235 players from 24 teams had been controlled out of competition. Test results received so far had all been negative, and most of the samples were tested for EPO, the substance used to increase endurance and physical strength. UEFA's team of doping control officers said club officials and players from teams which had been tested were very supportive.

Out-of-competition pool
The 16 teams that have gone through to next spring's first knockout round will remain in UEFA's out-of-competition pool. Their players will be subject to testing in the winter break and until further notice. The clubs have also been asked to send their weekly team location form showing the whereabouts of teams and players in terms of residence, training, and matches. The 16 eliminated teams are removed from the UEFA-registered testing pool.