Cannabis and the Olympics: A Complex Intersection of Law, Ethics, and Sport

In recent years, cannabis has sparked significant debate in both the medical community and the world of sports. As the global perception of cannabis shifts, the conversation around its use among athletes—particularly in events like the Olympics—has grown increasingly complex.

The Legal Landscape of Cannabis Across the Globe

Cannabis laws vary widely around the world. Countries like Canada and Uruguay have fully legalized both recreational and medicinal use, while many U.S. states have followed suit despite federal prohibition. In contrast, nations like Japan and Singapore maintain stringent anti-cannabis laws, with severe penalties for possession and use. In India, cannabis is recognized for its traditional medicinal value under Ayurveda but remains illegal under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, with limited exceptions for medical and scientific purposes.

These differing legal frameworks create a patchwork landscape for international athletes, complicating their ability to navigate cannabis use within and outside of competition.

WADA's Stance on Cannabis and CBD

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has a complex stance on cannabis, reflecting both the evolving legal landscape and ongoing debates about its impact on athletic performance. Historically, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has taken a hard stance against cannabis use. The substance was initially banned in sports due to concerns about its potential performance-enhancing effects and its illegality in many countries. This position aligned with the broader "war on drugs" mentality prevalent in the latter half of the 20th century.?

However, In 2013, WADA raised the threshold for a positive THC test from 15 nanograms per milliliter to 150 ng/mL, significantly reducing the likelihood of detection from off-competition use. More recently, the IOC has shown openness to cannabidiol (CBD), removing it from the prohibited list in 2019. WADA's decision to allow CBD reflects a recognition of its potential health benefits without the risks associated with THC, giving athletes the option to incorporate it into their recovery routines without fear of penalties.?

The Case of Sha'Carri Richardson: A Catalyst for Change?

The exclusion of American sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson from the Tokyo 2021 Olympics after testing positive for THC brought the issue of cannabis in sports into the global spotlight. Richardson, who used cannabis legally in Oregon to cope with the loss of her mother, was suspended for 30 days, disqualifying her from the 100m event—a decision that fueled widespread criticism and sparked calls for change.

Richardson’s case underscores the tension between evolving societal norms around cannabis and rigid sports regulations. Many advocates argue that athletes should not be penalized for using a substance that is legal in their jurisdiction and used outside of competition for personal reasons, particularly in light of emerging research on cannabis’ therapeutic benefits. The medical community has presented compelling arguments both for and against cannabis use in sports, with proponents highlighting its potential benefits in pain management and recovery, crucial aspects for high-performance athletes.?

The Future of Cannabis in Sports

The debate over cannabis in sports is far from settled. As countries continue to re-evaluate their cannabis laws and more athletes speak out about its benefits, there is a growing call for WADA and other sports governing bodies to reconsider their stance. We may see further relaxation of rules around CBD and possibly a more nuanced approach to THC testing that distinguishes between in-competition and out-of-competition use.

The IOC and WADA will need to balance respect for individual countries' laws, athlete welfare, and the integrity of competition. This may lead to a more individualized approach, considering the legal status of cannabis in an athlete's home country or the host nation of a particular event. For organizations like Qurist, the evolving discussion presents both challenges and opportunities. Advocating for informed, science-based policies that reflect contemporary understanding of cannabis will be key to fostering a more equitable and health-conscious sporting environment, allowing medical cannabis to play an active role in the health and well-being of athletes.?