CyADA - Κυπριακή Αρχή Αντί-Ντόπινγκ

With the aim of properly informing and raising awareness among young athletes representing Cyprus at the 18th European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) “Skopje 2025”, an educational seminar was held ον 16 July at the Olympic House, focusing on basic anti-doping knowledge. The main speaker was Dr. Michael Petrou, President of the Cyprus Anti-Doping Authority (CyADA).

The seminar, held under the auspices of the Cyprus Olympic Committee (COC), aimed to inform athletes and their support personnel about anti-doping regulations, the list of prohibited substances and methods, as well as the consequences of anti-doping rule violations.

Dr. Petrou emphasized that doping not only undermines the spirit of sport but also poses serious health risks for athletes and compromises the fairness and credibility of competition. He highlighted the principle of “strict liability”, whereby the athlete is solely responsible for any prohibited substance found in their body, regardless of intent or fault.

The seminar covered anti-doping rule violations, such as the use or possession of banned substances, interference with the doping control process, or collaboration with individuals already sanctioned for doping offenses. Consequences may include up to four years of suspension from sport, loss of medals and sponsorship, and possible legal penalties.

Special attention was given to the importance of careful management of medications and dietary supplements. Dr. Petrou warned that even products with identical packaging may contain different ingredients. Athletes were encouraged to use resources such as www.globaldro.com and to contact CyADA for guidance.

The process of applying for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) was also explained. A TUE is granted only when, due to a medical condition an athlete requires the use of a prohibited substance, under strict conditions and after thorough evaluation by an authorized medical panel.

The session concluded with a powerful reminder: all athletes begin their careers “clean” — it is their responsibility, and that of those around them, to remain that way. Integrity, fair play, and respect for fellow competitors are fundamental values of sport.

Cyprus Anti-Doping Authority

Nicosia, 22 July 2025