The case revolves around an anti-doping violation by Brazilian canoeist Igor Alex Tofalini, who tested positive for the prohibited substance Stanozolol during the Brazilian Championship of Canoeing and Paracanoeing in December 2013. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed a decision by the Brazilian Superior Tribunal de Justiça Desportiva da Canoagem (STJD), which had reduced Tofalini's suspension from the standard two years to one year, citing mitigating circumstances. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld WADA's appeal, ruling that Tofalini failed to demonstrate how the substance entered his body and did not meet the required standard of care to avoid such violations.
Tofalini claimed the substance entered his system unintentionally through a supplement called M Stante, which he believed was safe. He argued that as an amateur athlete with limited experience and no professional support, he lacked proper guidance on anti-doping rules. However, the CAS found his explanation insufficient, emphasizing that athletes bear strict responsibility for ensuring no prohibited substances enter their bodies. The tribunal noted Tofalini’s late and inadequate research into the supplement after the positive test, which demonstrated carelessness rather than exceptional circumstances justifying leniency. The CAS also ruled that his amateur status and the low-profile nature of canoeing were irrelevant in determining fault.
The CAS confirmed its jurisdiction to hear the appeal, as WADA had the right to challenge final decisions not appealed by the athlete. The tribunal concluded that the STJD’s reduction of the sanction was unjustified under the World Anti-Doping Code, reinforcing the principle of strict liability in doping cases. The decision underscores that athletes must exercise utmost caution with supplements and cannot rely on lack of professional support or inexperience to mitigate sanctions. The ruling maintains the integrity of anti-doping regulations by holding athletes accountable regardless of their level of competition.
The CAS imposed a two-year suspension on Tofalini, effective from the date of the award's notification, with credit given for any prior suspension served. Additionally, all competitive results from December 15, 2013, were disqualified, including forfeiture of medals and prizes. The decision highlights the importance of athlete diligence in supplement use and the consequences of failing to adhere to anti-doping protocols. The case serves as a reminder of the strict liability principle in anti-doping regulations, where athletes are responsible for any prohibited substances found in their system, regardless of intent. The ruling aligns with established CAS jurisprudence, ensuring consistency in anti-doping enforcement.