The Washington Capitals Evgeny Kuznetsov has been suspended for four years by the IIHF. In this period, the Russian forward won’t be able to play in any IIHF events, including the Olympics. The whole process began after Kuznetsov failed a doping control in May.
Russian forward Yevgeni Kuznetsov has received a 4-year suspension from the IIHF after testing positive for a banned substance at the 2019 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship. https://t.co/qLpqHGKlbT
— IIHF (@IIHFHockey) August 23, 2019
IIHF Suspends Evgeny Kuznetsov
As per the IIHF statement, the federation has suspended Kuznetsov for a violation of World Anti-Doping Code Article 2.1. The problem for Kuznetsov began during the IIHF World Championship, where he failed to pass a doping control. The incident occurred on May 26. The player was provisionally suspended on June 13. Now, the IIHF handed Kuznetsov a four-year ban from playing in competition under the IIHF’s reign.
During the World Championship, Kuznetsov has played in all 10 games. He hasn’t been able to shine for Team Russia as he only collected two goals and four assists for six points, which was a disappointment. During the past NHL season, the 27-year-old Russian center gathered 72 points in 76 regular-season games. In the playoffs, Kuznetsov combined for six points, while scoring only one goal. He scored that lone playoff goal in Game 7 versus the Carolina Hurricanes. Of course, Kuznetsov is a Stanley Cup champion from 2018.
Statements from the Washington Capitals and Evgeni Kuznetsov
“The Capitals are aware of the positive test result and related international sanction that has been imposed on Evgeny Kuznetsov. We are disappointed with this development and take this occurrence seriously. We understand that Evgeny has voluntarily sought help through the education and counseling program provided for in the NHL/NHLPA collective bargaining agreement and has agreed to a regular testing protocol relating to his involvement with that program…” issued the Capitals on their official website.
Evgeny Kuznetsov spoke out, saying “recently, the IIHF notified me that, due to a positive test for a banned substance, I would be suspended from international competition for four years. I have made the decision to accept this penalty. Representing my country has always been so close to my heart and something I take so much pride in…”
What Does This Mean For The Future?
As apart of the suspension, Kuznetsov also won’t be able to play in the KHL in the case of a lockout. He will also miss many tournaments, including the World Championship and Olympics. The suspension will conclude on June 12, 2023.
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