The fight against doping in sport is led globally by the World Anti-Doping Agency, an international body responsible for establishing anti-doping policies and determining which substances and methods are prohibited in competition. Its role is central to maintaining fairness and integrity across all levels of sport.
One of the key tools used by WADA is the annual Prohibited List. This document outlines substances and methods that athletes are not allowed to use. A substance or method is included on the list if it meets at least two of three criteria: the potential to enhance performance, the risk it poses to an athlete’s health, and whether it violates the spirit of sport and fair play.
The Prohibited List is structured into three main categories. The first includes substances and methods that are banned at all times, such as anabolic agents. The second category covers those prohibited only during competition, including substances like glucocorticoids. The third applies to specific sports, where certain substances, such as beta blockers in shooting, are restricted due to their performance impact in those disciplines.
To ensure compliance, athletes are required to take responsibility for any substance they consume. Before using any medication, they must verify whether it is permitted. This can be done by consulting a sports medicine physician or using tools such as NADA’s “Know Your Medicine” app, helping to reduce the risk of unintentional violations.
In situations where an athlete requires a prohibited substance for legitimate medical reasons, they must apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption, commonly known as a TUE. The application process involves submitting a form signed by a qualified medical professional, along with relevant medical reports and diagnoses. For substances banned at all times, applications should be made as early as possible, while those prohibited only during competition require submission at least 30 days in advance. Typically, a decision on a TUE request is provided within 21 days.
Monitoring and testing form another crucial part of the anti-doping system. Athletes included in the Registered Testing Pool are required to provide regular updates on their whereabouts. This ensures that they can be tested both in and out of competition. The ADAMS system is used for this purpose, allowing athletes to update their personal details, training locations and competition schedules.
Anti-doping violations extend beyond just testing positive for a banned substance. There are multiple Anti-Doping Rule Violations that can result in sanctions. These include the presence or use of prohibited substances, refusal to provide a sample, failure to submit accurate whereabouts information, tampering with the doping control process, and involvement in trafficking or possession of banned substances. Additional violations include complicity in such actions and association with individuals who have been sanctioned.
Understanding these regulations is essential for every athlete. Compliance is not only about avoiding penalties but also about upholding the principles of fair play and integrity that define sport.