Maria Sharapova drugs hearing likely to be heard in next week

Russian set to face London hearing within days, with findings expected to be known in June

Former world No 1 is likely to face a hearing into her failed drugs test within the next week (Getty) (Getty Images)

The hearing into Maria Sharapova’s positive drugs test is expected to be heard next week.

Reports from reliable American sources, including “Sports Illustrated”, said that the International Tennis Federation would hold the hearing in London.

It is expected to take place on Wednesday and Thursday next week, though the findings are unlikely to be released before next month.

Sharapova revealed two months ago that she had failed a test for Meldonium, a drug which was put on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s banned list at the start of this year.

The Russian, who failed the test at the Australian Open in January, said that she had been unaware of the change.

Although Sharapova could be banned for up to four years, the likelihood is that she will be given a significantly shorter suspension.

The former world No 1 said when revealing the failed test that she had been prescribed the drug by her doctor 10 years ago because of health issues, including a family history of diabetes.