The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has decided to retain cannabis on its list of prohibited substances for 2023.
The prohibited list identifies which substances athletes cannot use during and outside of competition, as well as those banned within specific sports.
The restrictions apply to all athletes competing in sports whose governing bodies are signatories to the World Anti-Doping Code.
During its September 2021 meeting, the WADA List Expert Advisory Group (LiEAG) commissioned a scientific review of cannabis's status on the list, which was carried out this year.
In announcing the outcome of that review, WADA said: "The main psychoactive component of cannabis, delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is currently prohibited in-competition. After thorough assessment and discussion, the LiEAG concluded that THC continues to meet the criteria to be included on the prohibited list."
Many had anticipated the review might result in cannabis being removed from the list, following the positive test that led to US sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson's suspension from the 2022 Tokyo Olympics.
The decision drew criticism from celebrities and fellow athletes alike, and even the White House urged sporting organisations and anti-doping authorities to revisit their regulations on cannabis use.
For a substance to be placed on the prohibited list, it must satisfy at least two of the following three criteria:
- It has the potential to enhance or enhances sport performance.
- It represents an actual or potential health risk to athletes.
- It violates the spirit of sport.
The list undergoes an annual review and is published three months in advance, giving athletes and their support staff adequate time to familiarise themselves with any updates.