With the latest developments in the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, this season is proving it to be an exciting one, especially with the uproar regarding the recently finished Germany-Nigeria match. Followers of this season who are also cannabis enthusiasts may be wondering: are my favorite players allowed to consume the plant? Here’s what you should know:
FIFA Works with WADA and NADO
One of the first things you should know is that FIFA adheres with the policies of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and National Anti-Doping Organizations (NADOS). According to WADA rules, cannabinoids are prohibited during competitions. This list includes cannabinoids from natural sources such as hashish and marijuana. Synthetic ones are also not allowed incompetition.
Pure Cannabidiol is Allowed
However, CBD is allowed in and out of the competition. So, your favorite athlete can still consume CBD as long as it is pure cannabidiol and not infused with any other cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive component of the plant. Any products that contain cannabidiol such as CBD oil capsules and CBD vape are permitted.
Therapeutic Use is Allowed
Cannabis is a highly medicinal plant. In fact, it is included in medical treatments for serious conditions such as cancer and epilepsy. Aside from the highly medicinal CBD, other banned substances are allowed if and only if it is absolutely needed by the player for therapeutic purposes.
Athletes with illnesses or medical conditions that need to be treated using medications included in the Prohibited List can use them as long as they get the proper authorization. Players and their physicians can apply for authorization to use the substance.
The Association Encourages Reporting
FIFA is intent on maintaining fairness and equality when it comes to its competitions. Because of this, the association encourages witnesses to any kind of doping infractions to report violations. It has even developed a Doping Reporting Mechanism tool to make the filing of reports much easier. FIFA also developed informative materials to enlighten individuals about its rules including the Anti-Doping Regulations and anti-doping educational tool.
Fairness and equality have always been the most fundamental aspects of sports such as the Women’s World Cup – aside from sportsmanship, of course! Understanding FIFA’s anti-doping regulations which allows the consumption of CBD edibles, you can bet that your favorite athletes have the freedom to intake this cannabinoid without sacrificing the authenticity of their performance.
