Dutch sprinter suspended after failing drugs test

Mariano in 2010. Photo: Erik van Leeuwen via Wikipedia
Mariano in 2010. Photo: Erik van Leeuwen via Wikipedia

Sprinter Brian Mariano has been given a preliminary suspension after failing a drugs test during an international event in France last month, the Dutch athletics association said on Tuesday.

Mariano was tested after the event on February 6 in Mondeville. The association did not say what illegal substance Mariano is said to have taken. His suspension will last until the outcome of a second test is known and the board decides what to do next.

Mariano, 31, said in a statement he had no idea how he had come to consume a banned product. β€˜It may have been in one of the supplements I ordered online,’ he said. β€˜I know that I am responsible for my actions and I accept the suspension.’

Mariano is joint holder of the Dutch 60-metre record with a time of 6.60. He was part of the Dutch sprint relay team which won gold at the European championships in 2012.

Thank you for donating to DutchNews.nl.

We could not provide the Dutch News service, and keep it free of charge, without the generous support of our readers. Your donations allow us to report on issues you tell us matter, and provide you with a summary of the most important Dutch news each day.

Make a donation