Doping case against Totti is dropped
MILAN, Oct 12 (Reuters) - A possible doping case against AS Roma
striker Francesco Totti has been dropped, the Italian Football
Federation (FIGC) said on Friday.
A statement on FIGC's Web site said that its Federal Court of
Justice had agreed to archive the case after a request from the
Italian Olympic Committee's anti-doping unit.
It gave no details of the possible offence committed by Totti but
Italy's ANSA news service said the 31-year-old had been late for a
routine doping test on May 13.
His second child Chanel was born on this date, which may be a
reason why he was late for the test.
Under the rules, anti-doping authorities had to investigate the
case although it had been kept quiet. The release of the statement
stunned Italy, despite the fact the case was being archived. If new
evidence emerges, the case can be reopened.
Totti, who scored 26 league goals last season to pick up the
European Golden Boot, is one of Italy's most high-profile players
thanks to his sublime skill and marriage to glamorous television
presenter Ilary Blasi.
He retired from the national side in July having picked up a World
Cup winners' medal last year.