Time to Prepare for 2026: Key Updates to the WADA Prohibited List
WADA 2026 Prohibited List: What WDSF Athletes Need to Know
The 2026 World Anti-Doping Agency Prohibited List will come into force on 1 January 2026. It identifies substances and methods that are prohibited both in- and out-of-competition and provides essential guidance for athletes competing under WDSF rules.
Athletes are encouraged to review their medications, supplements, and treatments now to ensure compliance with the updated list and to avoid inadvertent anti-doping violations.
Strict liability: the responsibility of the athlete
Under the principle of strict liability, athletes are fully responsible for any prohibited substance found in their body, regardless of how it was ingested, whether prescribed by a doctor, recommended by a coach, or given by a parent, guardian, or other support person.
Checking all medications and supplements before competition is essential, especially when updates to the Prohibited List take effect.
Categories to review for 2026
The 2026 updates include clarifications and new examples in several substance classes. WDSF athletes should pay particular attention to:
- Anabolic Agents
- Peptide Hormones and Growth Factors
- Hormone and Metabolic Modulators
- Stimulants
- Beta-2 Agonists
- Glucocorticoids
- Prohibited Methods
These updates are designed to help athletes and their support teams identify prohibited substances and methods more clearly.
Support from your team
While responsibility rests with the athlete, coaches, parents, guardians, medical staff, and other support personnel play a critical role in helping athletes make safe, informed decisions. Staying informed together is key to protecting both the athlete’s career and the integrity of DanceSport.
Shawn Tay, WDSF President, underlined the vital role of anti-doping in protecting clean sport:
“Education is one of the most effective tools in protecting clean sport. By understanding the Prohibited List and working closely with their support teams, athletes can compete with confidence and integrity.”
Need advice?
If you are unsure whether a medication, supplement, or treatment is permitted, always seek guidance before use. For any questions or support, contact the WDSF Anti-Doping Commission: [email protected]
Being informed and proactive is the best way to ensure a clean, fair, and safe competition environment for all WDSF athletes.
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