Kilian Zündel suspended two years for anti-doping violation

Ice hockey defenseman Kilian Zündel has received a two-year suspension following an anti-doping rule violation. The Austrian Anti-Doping Rechtskommission (ÖADR) issued the ban, which lasts until September 2028.

The violation did not involve a positive test for prohibited substances. Instead, it concerned the administration of an intravenous vitamin infusion containing more than 100 milliliters of fluid within a twelve-hour period, which is restricted under anti-doping regulations. Zündel stated the infusion was intended for regeneration following a demanding season and maintained that no prohibited substances were used.

In response to the ruling, the Graz99ers have terminated Zündel's contract effective immediately. The club stated they had no prior knowledge of the medical treatment, which was reportedly conducted by a private physician. Graz99ers sports director Philipp Pinter expressed disappointment over the loss of a popular player and teammate.