Paolo Guerrero Sample Is A Bit More Complicated, But Simpler

The announcement that Paolo Guerrero’s positive drug test sent shockwaves through Peru. The reports that came out of Argentina mentioned that he was positive for cocaine, which whipped up a frenzy in Peru and in various outlets throughout the region.

On Friday evening, those reports from Argentina were confirmed by Globoesporte although they were not to the extent of what was being originally reported. In Argentina, the reports of Guerrero having consumed a “social drug” started.

Guerrero’s sample found traces of Benzoylecgonine, one of the principal metabolites in cocaine after a drug test he took after drawing with Argentina in Buenos Aires. In most situations, this chemical is found in therapeutic teas or even topical solutions in various parts of the world, especially in Peru and Bolivia. There have also been studies done in water supplies in various industrialized countries where traces of this chemical can be found as well.

It is to be noted that the Flamengo forward was suffering from the flu during World Cup qualifiers against Argentina and Colombia. According to the reports coming out of Brazil, the B sample will also be tested in the coming days.

In order to give perspective on this matter, Globoesporte mentioned that former São Paulo goalkeeper and Brazilian national team backup Zetti was found positive for this same substance prior to the 1994 World Cup. In that case, the goalkeeper admitted that he consumed coca tea while in Bolivia and was absolved.

Both the Peruvian FA as well as Flamengo have released statements (below) about the matter and are behind the player. The Rio side have gone out to even defend his character and say that he has “always had exemplary conduct”. Meanwhile the former announced that they were already informed by FIFA of the player’s 30-day suspension.

The bad news is that whether Guerrero is absolved or not of this mistake, he will miss out some crucial matches for Flamengo in the Brasileirão and Copa Sudamericana. For Peru, his absence will also be noted as they will face New Zealand in the World Cup playoff for a chance to return to the biggest sporting event in the world after a 36-year absence.