WADA lists cannabinoids (including THC and synthetic versions) as Prohibited In-Competition under the S8 Cannabinoid class. They are also classified as Substances of Abuse.
Why cannabis is prohibited in sport
The psychoactive chemicals from cannabis and its synthetic counterparts are called cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are prohibited because they:
- may enhance performance
- pose health risks
- violate the spirit of sport.
Substance of Abuse category
WADA introduced the Substances of Abuse category to allow more flexibility in how athletes are sanctioned. This is if the positive test is related to a substance of abuse or illicit drug, as opposed to an attempt to enhance performance.
Forms of cannabis
The prohibited forms of cannabis include:
- THC
- Marijuana (dried leaves/buds)
- Hash / Hashish
- Hash oil
- Synthetic cannabinoids mimicking THC.
CBD
CBD (Cannabidiol) is allowed, but athletes should use with caution due to contamination risks. You should treat CBD like a supplement risk. You can help reduce your risk by checking your substances through the Sport Integrity App.
Athletes prescribed CBD products by a medical practitioner for a diagnosed medical condition, may be able to apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE).
A TUE does not grant legal authority to have or transport cannabis. It only confirms compliance with WADA’s TUE standards.
Health risks
By using cannabis you can risk your career and also face health risks.
Recreational or acute use
Symptoms when used for recreational or acute use include:
- nausea
- vomiting
- hallucinations
- memory or coordination issues
- paranoia
- increased heart rate.
The increase in heart rate follows marijuana use in the first 3 hours. This could put increased strain on an athlete’s heart and has the potential to lead to an irregular heartbeat.
Chronic use
Symptoms for chronic use include:
- bronchitis
- mood disorders
- psychosis
- Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
- reduced cardiovascular response to exercise.
Cannabinoids can impair cardiovascular and respiratory performance during physical exertion.
Testing
Under WADA rules, cannabis is only tested In-Competition – this is doping control testing on a day when an athlete is competing. Cannabis can remain in the system for extended periods due to its fat-soluble nature and strain variability.
Your National Sporting Organisation may test under separate illicit drug policies with its own rules and penalties.
Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs)
It is an Anti-Doping Rule Violation to test positive for cannabis In-Competition without a valid TUE.
Penalties:
- up to 4 years ban
- reduced to 3 months if use was Out-of-Competition and not performance-related
- reduced to one month if athlete completes an approved Substance of Abuse treatment plan.
Treatment plan includes:
- medical practitioner consultation
- completion of an education program (at athlete’s cost).
Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE)
If a cannabinoid was prescribed by a Medical Practitioner for a legitimate therapeutic purpose with evidence – an athlete may be eligible to apply for a TUE. In this case, the athlete must provide the required documentation including a detailed clinical letter from their treating doctor or specialist. If a cannabinoid was consumed illegally, a TUE would not be issued.
Online education
We do not support illicit drug use. We work with sports to promote safe and fair competition, including:
- free education for athletes
- resources and support to build positive sporting cultures.