"We therefore request that this message be spread widely within the sport" - Warnings are sent as Tramadol enters doping ban list into 2024

Tramadol has been for a long time widely debated in cycling, specifically whether it is considered as doping or not. The answers varied, but ultimately from January 1st they will enter the ban list for the sport and authorities warn against it's use, or the procedure to undertake if they are required.

“It is important that every athlete who uses tramadol is informed of this change in a timely manner. We therefore request that this message be spread widely within the sport," the Dutch doping authority wrote. “Athletes who use tramadol must request a dispensation. In addition, it has been shown that tramadol can improve sports performance. Outside of competition, tramadol is not checked for. However, WADA has determined a detection time of 24 hours. As a result, use outside of competition can still lead to a positive test within competition.”

The drug was used by Nairo Quintana at the 2022 Tour de France. Over the years there were suspicions or rumours of other riders doing so. The Colombian however tested positive on two different occasions during the race where he presented a strong level. He was not suspended from the sport, but his results from the Tour were eliminated. Furthermore he was removed from Arkéa Samsic because of the case and ended up not finding a team into 2023.

With evidence that tramadol can be performance enhancing, and having negative consequences if used regularly, WADA have inserted the substance in the banned list - a year later, so as to allow riders and teams to get used to the new regulation.