Mudryk was provisionally suspended after testing positive for meldonium during an out-of-competition drug test while on international duty with Ukraine in October 2024. The banned substance is known to improve stamina and respiratory performance. Although the FA later imposed a four-year suspension, Mudryk appealed the ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
The FA confirmed that the disciplinary proceedings have now been concluded after Mudryk admitted to breaching anti-doping regulations and accepted a suspension equal to the time he had already served. As a result, he is free to resume his playing career with immediate effect.
Reacting to the outcome, Mudryk described the past 20 months as the most challenging period of his career. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return to football and maintained that he had never knowingly or intentionally taken a prohibited substance.
The FA also revealed that the sample contained only a low concentration of meldonium. Since the test was conducted, the World Anti-Doping Agency has updated its technical guidance on reporting the substance. Under the current standards, the concentration detected in Mudryk's sample would not have resulted in an adverse finding. While the revised rules are not applied retrospectively, they formed part of the context surrounding the final resolution.
Chelsea welcomed the conclusion of the case and said they were pleased their player could now return to football. The club stated it had supported Mudryk throughout the legal process while respecting the integrity of the anti-doping system. Chelsea also confirmed the winger will join the squad for its pre-season tour as he works toward regaining full fitness.
Mudryk remains under contract with Chelsea until 2031 after joining the club from Shakhtar Donetsk in a deal worth £61 million in 2023. During his suspension, he was barred from training with Chelsea and instead maintained his fitness through private coaching sessions, individual training, and camps away from the club.
Chelsea will now assess the best path for the 25-year-old's return, whether through first-team involvement, a loan move, or another option. For Mudryk, the resolution offers a fresh opportunity to rebuild his career and compete at the highest level once again.
