The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has published the 2026 Prohibited List (the List), which will come into force on 1 January 2026. Athletes and athlete support personnel are strongly advised to familiarize themselves with the List and the Summary of 2026 Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes (the Summary) to avoid inadvertent use of substances and methods that are prohibited for 2026.
The Major Modifications on the 2026 List include but not limited to the following:
- Withdrawal of blood or blood components has been clarified that is prohibited, except for analytical purpose e.g. medical test, doping control, or donation purpose. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) remains allowed;
- Non-diagnostic use of carbon monoxide (CO) is prohibited, under new section, M1. 4. Manipulation of Blood and Blood Components, as it boosts erythropoiesis. Diagnostic use, like hemoglobin or lung function tests, is not prohibited;
- Cell components (e.g. nuclei and organelles such as mitochondria and ribosomes) are added to the existing prohibition (under M3 Gene and Cell Doping) of using normal or genetically modified cells;
- Flmodafinil and fladrafinil, unapproved substances similar to modafinil and adrafinil, are now prohibited under the category S6 Non-specified Stimulants. These are often sold as supplements.
If any International-Level Athlete or National-Level Athlete (as defined by the respective International Federations and the Anti-Doping Organization of Hong Kong, China respectively) needs to use a prohibited substance / prohibited method on the List to treat a medical condition must apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) before use. For details, please refer to the TUE pamphlet on our website https://www.antidoping.hk.
Download the 2026 Prohibited List
Download the Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes