Eight members of Tunisia's World Cup squad have returned positive tests for clenbuterol, a substance banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency, according to reports citing The Times.

The players had their samples collected as part of the random drug-testing programme that applies to every athlete at the tournament. Traces of the banned substance were found in each of the eight samples flagged.

Despite the adverse findings, none of the eight players have been named or suspended. Officials believe the clenbuterol presence is attributable to contaminated meat rather than deliberate doping, given that Tunisia were based in Monterrey during the tournament.

A known problem in Mexico

Mexico has a documented history of farmers using clenbuterol in animal feed. The drug helps livestock shed fat and build lean muscle mass, but its presence in meat can inadvertently cause athletes to return positive tests.

The substance's notoriety in Mexican sport dates back to 2018, when boxer Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez received a six-month ban after testing positive for clenbuterol. Alvarez attributed the positive result to contaminated beef consumed in Mexico.

Clenbuterol is primarily prescribed to treat asthma. However, because it can promote lean muscle development and accelerate fat loss, it is listed on the World Anti-Doping Agency's prohibited list.

Tunisia's turbulent World Cup

The doping news compounds an already painful tournament for Tunisia, who exited the World Cup at the group stage after finishing bottom of Group F. The Eagles of Carthage suffered heavy defeats to Sweden, Japan, and the Netherlands.

Their difficulties began immediately: the 5-1 opening defeat to Sweden led to the dismissal of head coach Sabri Lamouchi. Herve Renard was appointed to take charge of their remaining two fixtures, but Tunisia could not recover.