Justin Gatlin receives eight-year suspension

Aug 22, 2006, 23:25 GMT

Picture dated 12 May 2006 shows US sprinter Justin Gatlin celebrating after setting a new 100 metres world record with a time of 9.76 seconds at the Qatar Super Grand Prix in Doha. EPA/-

Colorado Springs, CO - Sprinter Justin Gatlin has received an eight-year suspension from track and field for testing positive for a prohibited anabolic agent.

Gatlin, a 2004 Gold medalist in the 100 meters, tested positive for the banned substance after taking part in the Kansas Relays on April 22, 2006.

The United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) announced the results Tuesday and said that Gatlin agreed to the accuracy of the laboratory results. As a result, he will have to forfeit all results since the test, including his world-record tying 100 meter result in May.

This is the second violation for Gatlin, 24, who was suspended for one year for testing positive for the use of a prescription medication containing a prohibited stimulant.

'The nature of Gatlin's first offense for use of his medication puts this violation in a unique category,' said Terry Madden, USADA Chief Executive Officer. 'Given these circumstances and consistent with the international CAS precedent, a maximum of an eight-year suspension is a fair and just outcome.'

Normally, a second positive tests results in a lifetime ban.

It has been reported that Gatlin's coach Trevor Graham has accused a massage therapist of using a testosterone cream on the runner without Gatlin's approval.

Gatlin can appeal the suspension length. If the suspension does not get reduced he is not eligible to return until July 24, 2014.

Gatlin tied the world record of Jamaican Asafa Powell in the Qatar Super Grand Prix in Doha on May 12, 2006. Among his many accomplishments, he is also the 2005 World Outdoor 100 meter and 200 meter champion; 2005 US Outdoor 100 meter and 200 meter champ; and 2004 bronze medal winner in the 200 meter.

© 2006 The Sports Network