Real Madrid’s Champions League Preparation Disrupted by Surprise Doping Tests
VALDEBEBAS, SPAIN – Real Madrid’s final training session ahead of their Champions League match against Marseille on Tuesday was delayed Monday morning due to unexpected doping controls conducted by La Liga officials. The late arrival of league representatives and testing trucks at the Valdebebas training facility pushed back the start of practice by one hour,according to spanish newspaper Marca.
The disruption, while described as a routine procedure, has raised eyebrows within the club and prompted dissatisfaction from the European Football Association (UEFA). The timing of the tests – on the eve of a crucial Champions League fixture – is considered unusual, adding a layer of complexity to Real Madrid’s preparations. All players under the direction of manager Xabi Alonso were required to undergo examination.
La Liga officials arrived at Valdebebas to conduct the sudden doping examination. Real Madrid acknowledges the necessity of adhering to anti-doping regulations but expressed surprise at the timing, given the proximity to the Marseille match. UEFA reportedly shares this concern, questioning why the tests weren’t scheduled on a different day.
The incident underscores the stringent oversight of professional athletes and the potential for logistical challenges even for elite clubs like Real Madrid as they navigate both domestic and international competitions. The team will now proceed with their match preparations, despite the unexpected interruption to their routine.