James Stewart Anti-Doping Violation News
During 2014 Seattle Supercross, the FIM conducted one of its random drug tests on a few riders. Yoshimura Suzuki Racing’s James Stewart was one, and he tested positive for amphetamines from his prescribed Adderall.
Stewart and his team plan to appeal with solid evidence that he was not cheating, but the anti-doping violation still stands. And on Wednesday, the FIM served Stewart his anti-doping violation, which prevents Stewart from competing at the opening round Jan. 3, 2015, in Anaheim.
Though no specifics were provided, Yoshimura Suzuki Racing says “The ruling lays out a punishment that severely affects the entire 2015 season for James and the Yoshimura Suzuki team. Suzuki Motor of America and Yoshimura Racing will continue their unwavering support for Stewart during this difficult period and like all the fans hope to see him line up at the gate as soon as his ineligibility is lifted.”
“I’m extremely disappointed to say the least,” says Stewart. “We plan to appeal as I personally feel that the punishment far outweighs the situation; especially since I received both WADA and USADA approvals that prove I’m not cheating.
“I’m bummed for everyone involved: my family, my team, my sponsors, the promoters and most of all the fans. Unfortunately, I’ve had to be very quiet in regards to this situation but I’ll be telling the full story in the next couple weeks so everyone can understand what we’ve been going through. Thank you all for your continued support.”
Stewart has announced plans to be at the season-opening round of the 2015 AMA Supercross Championships at Angel Stadium in Anaheim to support his team, teammate, sponsors and fans, Yoshimura Suzuki Racing reports.
