Shortly before HSV comeback: Vuskovic in prosecutors' sights again | OneFootball

November 15, 2026, is boldly marked in HSV’s calendar. On that day, Mario Vuskovic’s four-year ban will come to an end, allowing him to take part in official matches again.

Those in charge have repeatedly signaled that they still believe in the Croatian and want to keep a squad spot open for him. However, the doping case now appears to be taking a new legal turn. According to the Hamburger Abendblatt, the Hamburg public prosecutor’s office has reopened its investigation into the 24-year-old. Reportedly, new lines of inquiry have emerged that had not previously played a role. However, the authorities did not comment on the specific background.

It had already become known earlier that Vuskovic let pass a possible dismissal of the proceedings in exchange for paying a fine. The defender would reportedly have had to pay a mid-five-figure sum but decided against it. Vuskovic continues to stick to his account that he did not engage in doping.

Since the positive EPO test became known, the former HSV professional has been fighting the allegations. As part of his defense, he had scientific expert opinions prepared and tried to cast doubt on the reliability of the test result. In the end, however, the Court of Arbitration for Sport followed the assessment of the World Anti-Doping Agency and upheld the four-year ban.

Photo: IMAGO

Is HSV comeback now in doubt?

It remains unclear what impact the new investigation will have. Once the proceedings are concluded, the public prosecutor’s office could either drop the investigation or file charges. However, the requirements for a criminal conviction are significantly higher than in sports law.

Regardless, HSV has so far stuck to its plans. While the legal review continues, Vuskovic is expected to be gradually reintegrated into the team. He will already be allowed to return to team training in September. After four long years, his comeback could then follow in November.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.