The International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards cheating. Unfortunately, at the 2022 World Games in Birmingham, this policy was put to the test when an athlete in the Women’s -54KG division committed an Anti-Doping Rule Violation.
Sveva Mellilo, IFMA World Champion and Gold Medalist at the 2022 World Games, tested positive for Canrenone. This substance is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) at all times and is classified as a specified substance under S5. Diuretics and Masking Agents of the 2022 WADA Prohibited List.
Following the notification and results management process, IFMA has issued a decision to ban Ms. Mellilo for a period of four years, from August 12, 2022, to August 11, 2026. Additionally, all of her individual results from the Birmingham World Games have been disqualified, including the forfeiture of all medals, diplomas, points, and prizes.
IFMA firmly believes that the use of any doping substances or methods to enhance performance, whether in or out of competition, is fundamentally wrong and undermines the spirit of muaythai and sport in general. Athletes are held to the principle of strict liability and are fully responsible for any substances found in their system under the rigorous doping controls conducted by IFMA and associated multisport event organizations. We believe that competition must be clean to preserve the integrity and fairness of muaythai.
Beyond ensuring fair competition, our fight against doping also aims to protect the health of athletes. It is essential to protect clean athletes and ensure that the rightful winners are honored.
IFMA will continue to conduct educational workshops, as we believe that prevention is key. We apologize to the International World Games Association (IWGA) and to every athlete affected by this incident. IFMA remains committed to promoting clean sport and upholding the values of fairness and integrity in muaythai.
