Maldives National Anti-Doping Code published; set to take effect in 2027

The Maldives National Anti-Doping Agency (MANADA) has officially gazetted the "Maldives National Anti-Doping Code," – set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Under this newly established Code, the mandate for proving any doping allegations against an athlete rests solely with MANADA. The Code comprehensively outlines the disciplinary measures and sanctions applicable to both individual athletes and their respective teams upon the substantiation of such violations.

The Code mandates that all Maldivian athletes maintain thorough familiarity with its regulations. Furthermore, it imposes specific obligations on athletes, including the requirement to provide samples for testing upon MANADA’s request, assuming personal responsibility for any medications or substances consumed, and mandatory participation in educational programs designed to foster awareness of anti-doping protocols.

The Maldives National Anti-Doping Agency was established following President Dr. Muizzu’s ratification of the First Amendment to the Maldives Sports Act on May 19. The agency is tasked with ensuring equity and integrity within the sporting arena.

According to an announcement from the President’s Office, the agency was formed pursuant to the powers vested in the President by Article 116 (a) of the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives, as stipulated in Article 38 (a) of the Maldives Sports Act. President Muizzu has further designated the agency to function under the administrative oversight of the Ministry of Sports, Fitness and Recreation.