The 28-year-old former Warrington player has been reprimanded by the Rugby Football League for overuse of the drug Salbutamol in his battle with asthma.
Sibbit, who had faced the possibility of a two-year suspension, said: “I am delighted that I can now put this behind me.
“Rugby league is my life and I have never taken any performance-enhancing drugs.
“The thought that I could be banned for two years has hung over me and I now look forward to concentrating on my game.
“I have now been advised by the doctor on ways to manage my asthma effectively. This will not be a mistake I will be repeating.”
Sibbit, an asthma sufferer since birth, was tested at a National League match against Widnes last June.
He was supported by his club, as well as the GMB union as he fought to clear his name.
The hearing was held five weeks ago but Sibbit had to wait for the outcome of an appeal by the World Anti-Doping Agency before being given the all-clear.
Geoff Burrow, from GMB’s sport section, said: “It is unfortunate that Ian has had this appeal hanging over him since the start of the season in September.
“However, he has proved his strength of mind by continuing to perform well for Salford City Reds.” Tweet
Comments
Login or Register to comment
Most excellent news! As an asthma sufferer myself, it would have been completely nonsensical to have banned Ian for using a drug that allowed him to compete at the same level as the players around him, rather than being inhibited by his condition. That it took this long to reach the conclusion however is unfortunate. Let's hope Ian can put both lungs 100% to work on Friday against the Warriors! Go Reds!!