News

To: WRU Member Clubs

WRU Anti-Doping Notice

The World Anti-Doping Agency’s 2024 Prohibited List comes into effect on 1 January 2024

Please be advised that the 2024 Prohibited List has been released by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and it will come into effect on 1 January 2024.  I draw your attention to the recent WRU Media Press Release available here: https://community.wru.wales/2023/12/05/wada-releases-2024-prohibited-list-with-the-inclusion-of-tramadol/

KEY MESSAGES TO DISSEMINATE TO ALL PLAYERS AND SUPPORT PERSONNEL

The 2024 Prohibited List is available in full attached or via the WADA website https://www.wada-ama.org/en/news/wada-publishes-2024-prohibited-list

The Prohibited List identifies which substances and methods are prohibited at all times, in-competition only, and within specific sports. 

All Players and Player Support Personnel should familiarise themselves with the new changes in advance of them coming into effect on 1 January 2024

UKAD has also published a summary of the major changes on the UKAD website https://www.ukad.org.uk/news/2024-prohibited-list-summary-changes

IMPORTANT NOTICE:   TRAMADOL

Tramadol will be prohibited in-competition. Players who may be using tramadol are reminded to speak to their doctor about seeking alternative pain medication that is permitted in sport. More information can be found https://www.ukad.org.uk/news/reminder-about-status-tramadol-2024-wada-prohibited-list
 
Be aware of Strict Liability – an athlete is solely responsible for any banned substance they use, attempt to use, or that is found in their system, regardless of how it got there and whether or not they had an intention to cheat.

If you have any questions on the Prohibited List or a medication you may be using, please contact substance@ukad.org.uk  

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

It is imperative that Players and Support Personnel are aware of their responsibility around checking their medication and to fully understand the principle of strict liability. 

Strict liability means that you are solely responsible for any banned substance you use, attempt to use, or is found in your system, regardless of how it got there or whether there was any intention to cheat.  Not knowing is not enough.

Supplements and Medication – Assess the need. Assess the risk. Assess the consequences.   Check your medication and check your supplements: https://www.ukad.org.uk/athletes/managing-supplement-risks  / https://www.ukad.org.uk/medicine

If you have any queries regarding this Notice, please visit the WRU Stay Onside Hub https://www.wrugamelocker.wales/en/resources-and-videos/resources/the-game/anti-doping/

WRU Diciplinary and Anti-Doping Manager