The head of the Egyptian Anti-Doping Commission, Hazem Khamis, has revealed new details regarding the doping case of Pyramids FC winger Ramadan Sobhi.
Speaking to On Time Sports, Khamis explained: “Ramadan’s sample showed some irregularities related to certain codes. As a result, the player was initially suspended until the completion of the investigation. However, the hearing committee later decided to lift the suspension, allowing him to play until the case is resolved.”
Khamis also mentioned that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has decided to appeal the Egyptian Anti-Doping Agency’s ruling. “WADA has appealed both the Egyptian decision and the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS),” he said. “As for Ramadan requesting compensation from the Anti-Doping Commission, I am not aware of any such request.”
The head of the Egyptian Anti-Doping Commission further explained, “When Ramadan’s sample was tested, it lacked the human component. This could be due to sample manipulation or an attempt to bypass the testing process. The final decision will come from CAS, and if a suspension is handed down, it will apply to both Ramadan and the Egyptian Anti-Doping Agency.”
In March, Ramadan Sobhi tested positive in a doping examination, leading to his initial suspension by the Egyptian Anti-Doping Agency. However, after approximately three months, Sobhi successfully appealed the decision, and the suspension was lifted, allowing him to return to the pitch for Pyramids FC.
Following his return, Sobhi featured in 26 games last season, scoring five goals and providing three assists. Despite his successful appeal, WADA is now challenging the decision, requesting a four-year suspension for the player.
Hany Zahran, Sobhi’s lawyer, acknowledged that WADA’s appeal was expected but reassured that it would not affect Sobhi’s eligibility to play in the meantime.