Cycling South Africa has received information regarding the unauthorised sale and administration of intravenous (IV) drips to cyclists at events. Such practices pose a serious violation of the Anti-Doping regulations and the ethical standards of clean sport.
We remind all athletes, team staff, medical personnel, and event organisers that the use of IV infusions or injections is strictly prohibited, irrespective of the substance being administered, unless it meets very specific medical conditions as outlined in the World Anti-Doping Code (WADC) Prohibited List of Substances and Methods as well as the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) and Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Anti-Doping Rules.
As per the attached Intravenous (IV) Infusion Advisory, IV infusions are only permitted:
- When administered in a hospital, surgical clinic, or during clinical investigations;
- When the total infused volume does not exceed 100 mL per 12-hour period; or
- When a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) has been granted in advance for use of an IV drip exceeding 100 mL per 12-hour period and not administered in a hospital, emergency room, as part of a surgical procedure or urgent medical treatment.
The use of IV drips for recovery, hydration, or performance enhancement in the absence of a medical emergency and/or TUE is a direct contravention of the SAIDS and UCI Anti-Doping regulations.
Cycling South Africa strongly urges all cycling affiliates, teams, and event organisers to take this matter seriously and to distribute the attached IV Advisory broadly. Any breach of these rules may lead to disciplinary action, including possible sanctions against individuals and teams.
Let us all work together to uphold the integrity of the sport and promote a culture of clean and fair competition.
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