Rhys Webb Banned from Rugby for Four Years Following Positive Drug Test

Former Welsh rugby player Rhys Webb has been banned for four years due to a positive test for growth hormone. Webb, who recently played for French side Biarritz, was provisionally suspended in July 2023. The ban, if confirmed, will last until 2027 and likely end his professional career.

Former Wales international Rhys Webb has been banned from rugby for four years after testing positive for a growth hormone last year, British media reported on Wednesday. Webb, recently at French second-tier side Biarritz, had been provisionally suspended by his club since July 2023 when he first tested positive in an unexpected check by the French Anti-Doping Agency (AFLD) days into the new season.

The 35-year-old, who announced his retirement from international rugby in May with 40 caps to his name, has now been found guilty by the AFLD, according to various media including the BBC and Wales Online. If confirmed, he would not be able to play until 2027, taking into account the suspension time he has already served. That would probably end Webb's career in professional rugby, with a ban also prohibiting him from taking up coaching in that time.

There was no immediate reaction from the AFLD or Webb.