Only one anti-doping violation from record test numbers

A record number of anti-doping tests were carried out by Sport Ireland in 2023, producing only one anti-doping rule violation (ADRV). A second violation is pending.

1,826 samples were collected by Sport Ireland last year, with 1,595 tests in total. The testing was carried out across 32 different sports in 12 counties.

Sport Ireland's Anti-Doping Programme commenced operation in January 2000. The Anti-Doping Unit (ADU) began collecting Dried Blood Spot (DBS) samples in 2023. This testing method collects drops of blood from an athlete's fingertip or upper arm, as a result temperature-controlled shipping is not required.

The Medcheck website was launched by Sport Ireland in January of last year. The site allows athletes to check the status of all pharmaceutical products purchased in the Republic of Ireland.

Sport Ireland have finalised a data sharing agreement with An Garda Siochána, a senior officer has been appointed as the liaison contact with Sport Ireland’s ADU.

CEO, Dr Úna May acknowledged the hard work and commitment of the Sport Ireland Anti-Doping Unit, adding that education and awareness remain integral to the programme’s continued progress and success.

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