Fijian rugby star Josua Vakurunabili has been suspended for three years following a breach of anti-doping regulations. The 33-year-old, renowned for his performances in Fiji’s national sevens team, tested positive for a banned substance during routine testing earlier this year.
The suspension, confirmed by the sport’s governing body, comes as a significant blow to Vakurunabili’s career and Fiji’s rugby community. Vakurunabili, a key figure in Fiji’s Olympic gold medal-winning team in Tokyo 2021, was widely regarded as one of the most influential players in the sevens circuit.
The Fijian Rugby Union expressed disappointment in the findings, emphasizing their commitment to upholding the integrity of the sport. “This is a sad moment for Fijian rugby, but we fully support the anti-doping framework to ensure fair competition,” said a spokesperson.
Vakurunabili, who has the option to appeal, has yet to make a public statement regarding the decision. The suspension rules him out of any form of rugby until late 2027, likely bringing his decorated international career to an abrupt halt.
The ruling has sparked discussions across the rugby world about the importance of strict compliance with anti-doping policies to protect the sport’s re
putation.
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