Eight Tunisia players showed traces of the banned substance clenbuterol in mandatory anti-doping tests during the 2026 World Cup, according to The Times. The players, whose identities are protected, are unlikely to face suspension because the positive tests are believed to result from contaminated meat consumed in Mexico, where Tunisia was based in Monterrey.
Disastrous Campaign Compounded by Doping Allegations
Tunisia had a calamitous World Cup campaign, finishing with zero points after losses to Sweden (5-1), Japan, and the Netherlands. They were the only CAF team eliminated in the group stage. The team also made history by sacking head coach Sabri Lamouchi, former Nottingham Forest and Cardiff City boss, after the opening defeat to Sweden.
The doping news further tarnishes Tunisia's tournament. Clenbuterol, a beta-2 agonist that functions like an anabolic steroid, can build muscle and reduce fat. It has been used in Mexican farming to produce leaner meat, leading to previous contamination cases.
History of Contaminated Meat Cases
In the 2011 Under-17 World Cup in Mexico, over 100 players from 19 national squads tested positive for clenbuterol. The Mexican Football Federation and WADA decided against prosecution due to evidence of contamination. Similarly, in this instance, a restaurant in Monterrey has been identified as part of an investigation.
In 2022, WADA issued Technical Letter 23, addressing clenbuterol. It states that clenbuterol detected at an estimated concentration of 5 ng/mL in urine is reported as an atypical finding (ATF), not an adverse analytical finding (AAF). A mandatory investigation follows to determine if the result is due to contaminated meat. If established, no further action is taken.
No Expected Consequences for Players
The Tunisian federation, players, and their clubs have been identified, but there is no indication of further consequences. England, who travel to Mexico City this weekend, source their own food and travel with chefs, so they are unlikely to be affected. FIFA declined to comment, and the Tunisian federation did not respond to a request for comment.
