World's best Bridge player suspended for doping

The World Bridge Federation says the world’s No.1 bridge player has been suspended after failing a drug test.

The federation said on its website Friday that Geir Helgemo, who is Norwegian but represents Monaco in bridge events, tested positive at a World Bridge Series event in Orlando, Florida last september.

Tests uncovered clomifene, a synthetic testosterone and female fertility drug, in his system.

After accepting he had breached anti-doping rules, Helgemo was suspended by the WBF until November 20. He also had all titles, medals and points from the 2018 World Bridge Series revoked.

Kari-Anne Opsal, president of the Norwegian Bridge Federation, said the drugs were “not performance enhancing”.

“Geir Helgemo … has previously played for the Norwegian national team and is our biggest star,” Opsal said in a statement on the federation’s website.

“Many within the bridge community know Geir and respect him.

“It is his responsibility not to take substances that are on the doping list, even though in this instance they are not performance enhancing in bridge.

“I feel for Geir in this situation and hope he will come back stronger … when his ban ends.”

The World Bridge Federation (WBF) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee and abides by World Anti-Doping Agency rules.