The International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) wishes to remind all National Federation administrators, officials, and athletes that the 2025 Prohibited List of Substances and Methods (List), as well as the 2025 Monitoring Program, will come into force on 1 January 2025. Approved by the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) Executive Committee on 12 September 2024, the List is a cornerstone of anti-doping regulations for all sports under the World Anti-Doping Code (Code).
Key Information About the 2025 Prohibited List
The Prohibited List is one of the eight International Standards that all Code Signatories, including IFMA, are required to adhere to. It outlines substances and methods banned both in-competition and out-of-competition, as well as those specific to certain sports.
Major Modifications for 2025
To assist the Muaythai community, here are the key changes introduced for 2025:
- Expanded Examples: Additional examples have been added to help athletes and their entourage identify prohibited substances in the following classes:
- S0: Non-approved substances
- S4: Hormone and metabolic modulators
- S5: Diuretics and masking agents
- S6: Stimulants
- Formoterol Adjustments: The dosing intervals for formoterol have been updated, though the maximum daily dose remains unchanged.
- Blood Donation Exemption: Donations of blood and its components (including apheresis) are no longer prohibited if conducted at accredited collection centres.
- Hydrafinil Reclassification: Hydrafinil is now classified as a non-specified stimulant.
- Clarifications: Guanfacine is confirmed as not being a prohibited substance.
- Beta-Blocker Changes: Beta-blockers are no longer prohibited in any skiing or snowboarding disciplines.
Annual Review Process
WADA’s annual review process ensures that the Prohibited List reflects the latest scientific, medical, and intelligence developments. This process involves:
- An initial consultation beginning in January.
- Review by WADA’s List Expert Advisory Group, which considers input from researchers, law enforcement, and pharmaceutical industries.
- Stakeholder consultations and revisions based on feedback.
- Approval by WADA’s Executive Committee in September.
To be added to the List, a substance or method must meet at least two of the following criteria:
- Potential to enhance performance.
- Actual or potential health risks to athletes.
- Violates the spirit of sport.
Athletes’ Responsibilities
Athletes are strictly liable for any prohibited substances found in their bodies or prohibited methods used. Entourage members are also subject to Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) if found complicit. Athletes and support personnel are urged to contact their National Anti-Doping Organisation (NADO) or IFMA’s Anti-Doping Department if they have any doubts about the status of substances or methods.
Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) Program
Athletes with legitimate medical reasons for using prohibited substances or methods can apply for a TUE in accordance with the International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (ISTUE). This program is a critical component of clean sport, ensuring fairness and health considerations are upheld.
Educational Resources for the Muaythai Community
To help our athletes, officials, and National Federations better understand these changes, WADA has provided a suite of educational resources, including:
- A checklist for implementing the revised List.
- A detailed Guide for Athletes and Athlete Support Personnel.
These resources are accessible on WADA’s Anti-Doping Education and Learning Platform (ADEL).
Multilingual Access and Digital Edition
The 2025 Prohibited List, along with the Summary of Modifications and Monitoring Program, is available in English, French, and Spanish. Translations into additional languages can be arranged by contacting WADA. A mobile-friendly digital edition will also be launched on 1 January 2025 for ease of access.
A Call to Action for IFMA Stakeholders
IFMA urges all National Federations, officials, and athletes to familiarise themselves with the 2025 Prohibited List to ensure compliance and maintain the integrity of our sport. For further assistance, please contact the IFMA Anti-Doping Department or visit the WADA website for more information.
Together, let us continue to uphold the values of clean and fair competition in Muaythai.
