Attempts At Saving His Hair Get Lazaridis A Year Ban

 

Former West Ham and Birmingham player Stan Lazaridis has been banned for 12 months for failing a drugs test, however, the winger was not banned for any usual drug, but one that he was using in an attempt to treat hair loss.

The substance that the Australian winger tested positive for was the banned finasteride – a masking agent – which was present in the medication he was taking to treat hair loss.

He tested positive in November and the year ban is backdated, which means he can continue his career with A-League outfit Perth Glory in December.

"The tribunal made certain express findings regarding Stan's good character which FFA welcomes," Football Federation of Australia chief executive Ben Buckley said.

"In particular, it found that Stan had not taken the prohibited substance to mask a performance-enhancing drug, but for legitimate therapeutic purposes as prescribed by his doctor.

The problem related to the processes, which is why it is so important for all athletes to be vigilant."