Does Anti-Doping affect me? Yes it does!
As a signatory of the World Anti-Doping Code, the FAI is committed to a programme of anti-doping that concerns all of our international level athletes. In that context, we would like to draw your attention to an important matter : Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUE).
What is a TUE?
A TUE is a document issued by the FAI if you regularly take medication prescribed by your doctor and this medication is on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List.
Why should I get a TUE?
The WADA publishes the list of prohibited substances on its website. If you have been prescribed a medication by your doctor which is on the prohibited list, you must get a form called TUE filled out by your doctor and then send it to FAI before you start to take the medication and at least 21 days before you compete (for international level competitors).
The aim is to prove that you do take this medication for medical and health reasons and not with the intention of enhancing performance.
Note : Other prohibited substances are often found in medications you can buy at the pharmacy without prescription so if you have a cold, check first before taking any medication. You are responsible for what is in your system and the punishment for a positive test is usually a 2 year ban from all sports.
How can I get a TUE?
Have the application form (available on FAI website on the link below) filled out by your doctor. International level athletes must send this form (after it has been filled in by their doctor) to the FAI Head Office, for the attention of the Anti-Doping Manager. National level athletes send it to their National Air Sport Control (NAC). If the TUE is approved, the athlete will then receive a TUE certificate of approval (within a few days) to show to any testing authority on their request.
Athletes must obtain TUEs for Prohibited Substances before they compete. Athletes in the Registered Testing Pool should apply for TUEs at the same time that they first provide whereabouts information to FAI and, except for emergency situations, no less than 21 days before the athlete's participation at an International event.
