Less than a week ago, volleyball player Mikołaj Sawicki was provisionally suspended from participating in matches due to a positive test for the use of prohibited substances. The head of the Polish Anti-Doping Agency (POLDA), Michał Rynkowski, at the time did not disclose the specific substance, only indicating that it could be used in therapeutic agents. Sawicki then decided to have a B sample tested, and the results have now been officially announced by POLDA.

B sample results:

The B sample is also positive and contains a substance calledmodafinil. This is a stimulant belonging to category S6 – Stimulants, used to increase alertness and regulate sleep.

How did the scandal unfold?

The doping scandal broke last weekend when Mikołaj Sawicki was absent from the team's squad for the match against Bulgaria for the Silesia Cup. Initially, it was speculated that his absence was due to a viral illness, but it was later revealed that he had been provisionally suspended by the Polish Anti-Doping Agency due to a positive sample after a check carried out after the second final match in the PlusLiga.

The head of POLDA, Michał Rynkowski, then stated:
"A prohibited substance was found in the player's body. The volleyball player has the right to have a B sample tested and to provide explanations. He has been provisionally suspended from participation." Rynkowski did not specify which substance it was but warned that the penalty for its use could be up to 4 years of disqualification.

What is modafinil?

Modafinil is a central nervous system stimulant used to regulate sleep and increase daytime alertness. Its medical profile includes the treatment of narcolepsy and ADHD, as well as other conditions related to disturbed sleep and attention.

However, its use without permission or a therapeutic use exemption is considered a violation of anti-doping rules. Currently, Mikołaj Sawicki has not provided any documents that would justify its use for therapeutic purposes.

Next steps and consequences

The volleyball player has been officially accused of violating anti-doping laws, and the case has been handed over to an independent anti-doping disciplinary court. He remains provisionally suspended from competitions, and the sanction that may be imposed on him is disqualification for up to 4 years.

Impact on the national team and the Nations League

Sawicki's suspension also affected the Polish national team. Coach Nikola Grbić will have to manage with only three outside hitters in the upcoming Nations League tournament in China, as Sawicki was not included in the official list of 14 players.

The defensive line included three liberos, and the loss of one of the key outside hitters will undoubtedly make selection and tactical decisions more difficult for the coach.

photo: PressFocus