RFL backed in Gleeson drugs case

UK Anti-Doping have given their backing to the Rugby Football League in the Martin Gleeson drugs case.

The former Hull centre, suspended for 18 months after testing positive for a banned substance, alleged the RFL had taken part in a cover-up and that he has been made a scapegoat.

In a statement yesterday UK Anti-Doping said: “UK Anti-Doping conducted full and extensive investigations which led to three individuals receiving bans totalling seven years. This was the first time that any member of an athlete’s entourage has been banned in this country and the first time globally that tampering with the doping control process in this manner has resulted in a violation. We sought external legal advice to independently review all possible charges during this process. Throughout our investigations we received support from Hull RLFC and the RFL.”

Two former Hull employees, chief executive James Rule and fitness conditioner Ben Cooper, have been suspended for their part in a cover-up.