Doping Control, Mandatory Arbitration, and Process Dangers for Accused Athletes in International Sports

The document discussed the challenges faced by athletes in international sports competitions regarding doping control and mandatory arbitration. Unlike athletes in U.S. professional sports leagues who have union support, international athletes often lacked access to competent legal representation when facing disciplinary actions, such as ineligibility due to doping allegations. The article analyzed the legal framework governed by the Olympic Charter, which required athletes to resolve disputes through the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and adhere to the World Anti-Doping Program (WADP). It highlighted significant procedural barriers that compromised athletes' rights to a fair hearing and suggested procedural changes to improve access to justice, including better legal representation and scientific evaluation.