USA: NCAA lifts cannabis ban for Division I athletes

A NCAA announced a significant change to its drug policy, declaring that cannabis will no longer be classified as a prohibited substance for Division I athletes during championships. Cannabis use among athletes gained significant attention when professional athlete Sha'Carri Richardson was excluded from the 2021 US Olympic Games team after testing positive for cannabis.

The Division I Council has declared that cannabis products are removed from the list of prohibited drugs for championship events and postseason participation in American football, effective June 26. Consequently, sanctions for athletes who test positive for cannabinoids will end.

Josh Whitman, Chairman of the Division I Council, emphasized that the NCAA's drug testing program is intended to maintain the integrity of competition: “Cannabis products do not provide a competitive advantage,” Whitman noted. He added that the council's primary focus is policies that promote the health and well-being of student-athletes rather than punitive measures for cannabis use.

The NCAA continues to enforce a drug testing program for steroids, peptide hormones and masking agents throughout the year. During championship seasons, the program also tests for narcotics, stimulants and other recreational drugs. The list of banned substances includes stimulants, narcotics and peptide hormones.

The case of athlete Sha'Carri Richardson

Cannabis use among athletes gained significant attention when professional athlete Sha'Carri Richardson was excluded from the 2021 US Olympic Games team after testing positive for cannabis. However, Richardson secured a place at the 2024 Summer Olympics after triumphing in the US trials.

In the wake of Richardson's 2021 disqualification, many advocates called for a review of the policy. Despite this, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) continues to ban cannabinoids, with the exception of cannabidiol (CBD).

Support for policy change

U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer, co-founder of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, applauded the NCAA's decision. In his statement, Blumenauer noted: “Slowly and surely, America is coming to its senses after 50 years of a failed war on drugs. It's only fair that the NCAA removes cannabis from its list of prohibited substances, as Sha'Carri Richardson qualifies for the 2024 Olympic Games – a feat she accomplished years ago but was wrongly taken away from her. Common sense is finally prevailing.”

The NCAA's decision to declassify cannabis as a banned substance for Division I athletes marks a significant shift toward more progressive drug policies. This measure reflects a broader social shift in the perception and regulation of cannabis, highlighting a focus on the health and well-being of athletes over punitive measures. As the world of sports adapts to these changes, athletes like Sha'Carri Richardson can expect fairer, more supportive environments on their professional paths.