Georgia Rugby Captain Banned for 11 Years Over Systematic Anti-Doping Scheme
World Anti-Doping Agency investigation exposes institutional failure as national testing authority tipped off team doctor, resulting in sanctions for six players.
Former Georgia rugby captain Merab Sharikadze has been banned from all sport for 11 years following his admission to a systematic urine-swapping scheme. The World Anti-Doping Agency investigation revealed that the national testing authority tipped off the team doctor, Nutsa Shamatava, regarding upcoming tests, allowing the information to be disseminated via a group chat. Sharikadze admitted to providing clean urine to teammates to facilitate the deception.
The scheme was designed to conceal the use of recreational drugs by national team players, according to World Rugby. This institutional failure resulted in sanctions for six individuals, with Sharikadze receiving the longest penalty. Five teammates were also suspended, with hooker Giorgi Chkoidze facing a six-year ban, while Lasha Khmaladze, Otar Lashkhi, and Miriani Modebadze received three-year suspensions. Lasha Lomidze was banned for nine months.
Historical analysis of samples supplied by the game's governing body uncovered five instances of sample substitution dating back to 2019. These anomalies were flagged by World Rugby in the run-up to the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. The investigation highlights a breakdown in governance where the testing authority colluded with medical staff rather than upholding the integrity of the competition.
The consequences of the scandal were evident on the field during the 2023 tournament, where Georgia finished bottom of their pool. The team drew against Portugal and lost their other three matches, including defeats to Australia and Wales. Sharikadze appeared in three pool games, while Chkoidze had dropped out of contention prior to the event due to an injury sustained in a warm-up match.
Sharikadze, who led Georgia to a victory over Wales in Cardiff in 2022, ended his playing career shortly after the ban at the age of 30. He transitioned to mixed martial arts fighting, winning his debut bout in November 2025. The case underscores the severe penalties imposed when athletes and officials conspire to undermine anti-doping protocols.
