CBD and doping: an update on the 2026 WADA list

CBD has been removed from the prohibited list of the World Anti-Doping Agency since 2018, according to WADA itself. This decision clearly separates cannabidiol from the other cannabinoids, which for their part remain prohibited in competition.

That removal opened the way to an openly acknowledged use of CBD in sport, particularly around recovery and winding down after exercise. It does not mean, however, that every hemp-containing product is risk-free for a licensed athlete.

All other cannabinoids, including THC, remain prohibited in competition, according to WADA. This distinction is explained by the psychoactive effects specific to THC, absent from CBD, which justify different regulatory treatment for the two molecules.

The urinary detection threshold for THC set by WADA is 150 ng/mL, according to the agency. An athlete taking a poorly labelled CBD product containing more THC than the label states is therefore exposed to a real risk of a positive test, even without any intention to dope.

Product choice remains the first lever of caution for a licensed athlete. Favouring products accompanied by an independent certificate of analysis, confirming a THC content compliant with French regulations, appreciably reduces the risk of unintended exposure.

Broad-spectrum or full-spectrum products, which retain traces of THC, carry a higher risk than CBD isolate products. An athlete subject to anti-doping testing therefore has an interest in putting traceability ahead of any other consideration.

Our article on padel and post-match recovery takes the same cautious approach applied to a sporting recovery ritual.

This anti-doping framework concerns athletes subject to the World Anti-Doping Code, in the disciplines and competitions that apply it. Certain specific federations, such as the Fédération Équestre Internationale for horses, apply distinct and stricter rules that prohibit CBD itself. Our article on CBD and horses in competition sets out this particular case.

An amateur athlete not subject to testing does not face this regulatory constraint, but vigilance over the quality and traceability of products remains advisable in every case.

Is CBD considered a doping product?

No, CBD has been removed from WADA's prohibited list since 2018. That is not the case for the other cannabinoids, including THC, which remain prohibited in competition.

Can an athlete test positive for THC by taking CBD?

Yes, if the product contains more THC than its label states. The urinary detection threshold set by WADA is 150 ng/mL, a level that poorly traced products can reach.

Is CBD permitted in all professional sports?

The 2018 removal concerns athletes subject to the World Anti-Doping Code. Certain federations, such as the FEI for horses, apply distinct rules that still prohibit CBD.

How can you check that a CBD product is risk-free for a licensed athlete?

The most reliable marker remains an independent certificate of analysis confirming a THC content compliant with the regulations. It does not replace a conversation with the athlete's doctor or coaching staff.