Doping case against Totti is dropped
MILAN, Oct 12 (Reuters) - A possible doping case against AS Roma striker Francesco Totti has been dropped, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) said on Friday.
A statement on FIGC's Web site said that its Federal Court of Justice had agreed to archive the case after a request from the Italian Olympic Committee's anti-doping unit.
It gave no details of the possible offence committed by Totti but Italy's ANSA news service said the 31-year-old had been late for a routine doping test on May 13.
His second child Chanel was born on this date, which may be a reason why he was late for the test.
Under the rules, anti-doping authorities had to investigate the case although it had been kept quiet. The release of the statement stunned Italy, despite the fact the case was being archived. If new evidence emerges, the case can be reopened.
Totti, who scored 26 league goals last season to pick up the European Golden Boot, is one of Italy's most high-profile players thanks to his sublime skill and marriage to glamorous television presenter Ilary Blasi.
He retired from the national side in July having picked up a World Cup winners' medal last year.