WADA to review cannabis banned status

Sha'Carri Richardson was banned from the Olympics after testing positive for cannabis, prompting calls for a review of the drug's status as a banned substance

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said Tuesday it will review the status of cannabis on its banned substances list in the wake of the positive test that saw US sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson suspended from the Olympics.

Following a meeting of WADA's executive committee in Istanbul, the global anti-doping watchdog said a scientific review of cannabis would be conducted next year -- although the drug would remain banned in 2022.

"Cannabis is currently prohibited in competition and will continue to be in 2022."

However the 21-year-old was ruled out of the Games after being handed a 30-day suspension following a positive test for marijuana in the wake of her 100m victory at the US Olympic trials in Eugene in June.

World Athletics chief Sebastian Coe is among those who have backed calls for a cannabis review.

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Originally published as WADA to review cannabis banned status