American soccer star transferred to Canada to smoke

In North America, there are two American soccer leagues. In one, in Canada, there's no penalty for using cannabis. In the other, in the United States, it's strictly forbidden. This is one of the reasons why Martavis Bryant chose to leave his native America and settle in Toronto. He has just signed a contract with the Argonauts until 2022.

«It's simply a new beginning for me, says the 29-year-old catcher to The Canadian Press. I still have soccer in me. I still want to play, and I still have a lot to give.»

This former Pittsburgh star left many fond memories for the fans of the Steelers. With Antonio Brown, he formed the most formidable pair of receivers in the entire league. In 2015 and 2016, Bryant scored 17 touchdowns, the equivalent of a soccer goal.

But for fans of Black and Yellow, Martavis Bryant was also known for his absences. In 2015, he was suspended for four matches. In 2016, he was even suspended for a year. White season. His agent acknowledges that Bryant has a problem with cannabis. The player then promises to go to rehab and undergo an evaluation for depression.

Cannabis not banned

But in 2018, another suspension. Again for cannabis. This time, the suspension is final. While playing for the Oakland Raiders, the National Football League (NFL) decides to ban him indefinitely. Since then, he hasn't played a game in the prestigious American soccer league.

The Canadian Football League (CFL) is far less prestigious than its southern neighbor. But it does have one major difference. Like the UFC fighting league has just decided, CFL players can consume cannabis. In addition, Bryant will be able to enjoy cannabis, legal everywhere in Canada.

«People learn from their mistakes, Bryant apologized. I was young, I know everyone uses that excuse, but it was also a question of maturity. You have to understand what went wrong, and change it.»

In February 2020, the NFL decides to back off. From now on, players who consume cannabis will no longer be suspended. Unfortunately for Martavis Bryant, this decision is not retroactive.