Legal framework of doping in sports

Abstract

Doping in sport refers to the use of prohibited substances or methods to enhance athletic performance aimed at an unfair advantage over other athletes in sports. While the pursuit of excellence is central to sports, doping undermines its integrity, fairness, and safety. Doping in sports has a long history, from primitive herbal concoctions to sophisticated designed biochemical drugs.  International and national regulatory frameworks have been developed to detect and sanction anti-doping rule violations. Doping has been shaped by the interplay between athletes seeking competitive advantage and authorities striving to maintain ethical standards A growing policy question is whether—and how—countries should criminalize certain forms of doping conduct (trafficking, supply, administration, organized schemes). This paper traces the historical development of anti-doping regulation, describes the core international instruments that shape national law, explains criminalization mechanisms used by states, assesses arguments for and against criminalization, surveys notable national approaches and cases, and outlines policy and procedural challenges for criminal enforcement.