Overview
- Former Carp player Ryutaro Hazuki livestreamed on Thursday that he and five other Hiroshima players bought etomidate, known as the 'zombie cigarette', from the same person.
- Hazuki was convicted on May 15 under the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act and received a one-year prison term with a three-year suspension for etomidate use.
- The Hiroshima Carp said it investigated after Hazuki's January arrest and has now begun renewed interviews of all players in response to his public allegation.
- Hiroshima Prefectural Police previously tested urine from several players and reported negative results, and investigators closed that part of the probe because they lacked positive evidence to press further charges.
- Hazuki described a drinking-focused, old-school team atmosphere and alleged hazing that he says pressured him to use the drug, a claim that deepens scrutiny of club culture and could prompt further internal or legal follow-up.