Increased Risk of Suspension and Public Disclosure for Marijuana Violations

(Ottawa, Ontario – March 12, 2009) – The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) would like to warn Canadian athletes that a doping violation for marijuana or other specified substances is much more likely to result in a suspension and public disclosure of the athlete’s identity under the 2009 Canadian Anti-Doping Program (CADP). 

Under the previous CADP, the use of specified substances (such as marijuana) typically resulted in a warning and reprimand with no period of sport ineligibility when the athlete could describe how the substance entered his or her body and prove that the use was non-performance-enhancing. 

Under the new CADP, it is more likely that a suspension period will be imposed for this type of violation. Furthermore, any violation that results in a period of ineligibility will result in public disclosure of the athlete’s name in a media release and on the CCES website. 

The reason for this change is that under the 2009 CADP, there is a greater burden of proof on the athlete prior to becoming eligible for a reduced sanction. In addition to the previous CADP’s requirements, the athlete must now establish that the substance was not intended to mask a performance-enhancing substance, and provide compelling, corroborating evidence from another person regarding the absence of intent to enhance performance. Only if this three-part test is satisfied will it be possible to seek a reduction in sanction, from two years of ineligibility down to the lowest possibility – a reprimand. 

The CCES is an independent, national, non-profit organization. Our mission, to foster ethical sport for all Canadians, is carried out through research, promotion, education, detection and deterrence, as well as through programs and partnerships with other organizations. 

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