Dopingkontrol

Dopingkontrol is the system of detecting prohibited substances or methods used by athletes to enhance performance, with the aim of preserving fair competition and athlete health. It is organized by national anti-doping agencies in coordination with international bodies such as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the sport’s governing federations. Testing occurs both in-competition and out-of-competition, and may be announced or unannounced.

The process typically involves planning and athlete selection, followed by sample collection, usually of urine and sometimes blood. Samples are sealed and tracked through a strict chain of custody. The A sample is analyzed in a WADA-accredited laboratory; if an adverse result is found, the B sample is tested upon request. Confirmatory testing uses analytical techniques such as chromatography and mass spectrometry to identify prohibited substances or their metabolites. In some cases, additional biomarker tests or long-term biological passport data may be used.

Substances and methods subject to dopingkontrol are listed in the World Anti-Doping Code Prohibited List and include categories such as anabolic agents, peptide hormones, erythropoietic agents, stimulants, diuretics, narcotics, cannabinoids, and prohibited methods like blood doping. Violations can lead to sanctions such as suspensions, disqualification, forfeiture of results, and loss of medals or titles. Athletes and support personnel have rights to information, hearings, and appeals within the results-management process.

Dopingkontrol programs also entail whereabouts obligations for athletes to enable out-of-competition testing, and are continually reviewed to balance effective enforcement with privacy and health protections.