HSV defender Vuskovic returns after a four-year doping ban

Mario Vuskovic, the Croatian defender of Hamburger SV, may on Tuesday for the first time train again with his teammates, now that after a four‑year doping ban extended by the CAS he can think about football again. The twenty‑four‑year‑old is ready to return to the club's training ground.

Found guilty of Epo use

Vuskovic was found guilty in 2023 of using Epo after a positive test in September 2022. The conviction initially led to a two‑year suspension, a penalty that was later amended.

CAS extends sanction at WADA's request

The International Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has extended the original two‑year suspension to four years, at the urging of the global anti‑doping agency WADA. This decision confirmed the seriousness of the violation and made a prolonged absence from professional football necessary.

HSV, however, remained convinced of Vuskovic's innocence; he insists that he did not deliberately use blood doping. In September 2024 the club showed solidarity by extending his contract through a special arrangement, although the agreement was later terminated with the understanding that he will receive a performance‑based contract in 2026.

HSV players have over the past years regularly displayed a banner with the text: “Vuskovic may from 15 November play matches again and may train with his club again two months in advance.” Coach Merlin Polzin moved the training session to the Volksparkstadion to give Vuskovic a warm welcome.

The club sits firmly at the bottom of the Bundesliga after three matches, making Vuskovic's return a welcome distraction. Whether and how quickly he will become match‑fit again after four years without professional football remains to be seen.

The former Croatian youth international kept himself fit over the past years by training on his own in his hometown of Split. “He made a very fit and dynamic impression on me there,” said coach Polzin. “He is very happy that he is now back in the dressing room and can have fun with the lads before and after training again.”