Two Further Anti-Doping Rule Violation in Beijing

Powerlifter Facourou Sissoko (-75kg) from Mali returned an adverse analytical finding of an anabolic agent, Boldenone metabolite, a substance on the 2008 Prohibited List. The urine sample was taken during the Games' out-of-competition period on 6 September 2008. In accordance with the IPC Anti-Doping Code, and after a hearing of the IPC Anti-Doping Committee, the IPC ratified the decision to disqualify Mr. Sissoko from the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games. A sanction of two years ineligibility was imposed.

Furthermore, Ukrainian Powerlifter Liudmyla Osmanova (-60kg) returned an adverse analytical finding of an anabolic agent, 19-Norandrosterone, a substance on the 2008 Prohibited List. The urine sample was taken during a pre-Games out-of-competition test mission, at a training camp in Tianbei Lu, Houshayu Town, China, on 29 August 2008. In accordance with the IPC Anti-Doping Code, and after a hearing of the IPC Anti-Doping Committee, the IPC ratified the decision to disqualify Ms. Osmanova from the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games. A sanction of two years ineligibility was imposed.

Both rulings are in accordance with the IPC Anti-Doping Code. The athletes can appeal the decision taken within seven days after the notification.

As a signatory of the World Anti-Doping Code (WADC), the IPC remains committed to a doping free sporting environment at all levels. The IPC, together with the International Federations and the National Paralympic Committees, established the IPC Anti-Doping Code (January 2004) to prevent in the spirit of fair play, doping in sport for athletes with a disability. The IPC Anti-Doping Code is in conformity with the general principles of the WADC.

To date, a total of 461 tests have been carried out at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games.