English media reports clenbuterol traces in at least eight Tunisia players

A cloud of concern hangs over the Tunisian national football team at the 2026 World Cup, with reports indicating that at least eight players registered atypical findings for clenbuterol. The substance, listed as prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), was detected during routine doping controls.

According to a report by the British outlet Daily Mail, the presence of clenbuterol is more likely linked to the consumption of contaminated meat in Mexico, where the tournament is being held, rather than intentional doping for performance enhancement. The clubs of the implicated players have reportedly been notified.

This situation comes as Tunisia faces a challenging campaign in the World Cup, having suffered significant losses to Sweden (5-1), Japan (4-0), and the Netherlands (3-1). Despite the positive tests, it is considered unlikely that the players will face additional sanctions.

The report references past incidents in Mexico, including the 2011 Gold Cup and U-17 World Cup, where similar clenbuterol findings in athletes were attributed to contaminated meat and did not lead to penalties. Clenbuterol, known for its stimulant and anabolic effects, has also been found in the systems of athletes like boxer Canelo Alvarez and cyclist Alberto Contador.