By
Former Springbok fly-half Elton Jantjies has been banned from professional rugby for four years after a failed doping test.
The former Lions star tested positive for Clenbuterol on 20 June 2023 and was subsequently left out of the Springboks plans for the Rugby World Cup. Clenbuterol - a bronchodilator - is often used by bodybuilders to burn fat, as well as cyclists for increased stamina as it increases airflow to the lungs.
Now, Jantjies B sample also tested positive for the banned substance, as revealed on the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport's website.
While the 33-year-old is yet to release a statement, his agent Anthony Johnson indicated he is aware of the outcome of the test.
"Yes, he is aware," confirmed Johnson with The Herald.
"Elton would prefer not to engage with the media and his legal team was working on the case."
Jantjies had been plying his trade with French second-division club Agen last year in the leadup to his positive test in June.
He last featured for the Springboks against Australia in the 2022 Rugby Championship. Later in the tournament, he was released from the squad following allegations of extramarital affairs with the Boks' team dietician, Zeenat Simjee, while on tour.
The four-year ban looks set to put an end to Jantjies' storied career that was unfortunately marred by off-field incidents.
