The case involves an arbitration decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) regarding an anti-doping rule violation by Elmira Alembekova, a Russian race walker. The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) brought the case directly to CAS due to the suspension of the Russian Athletics Federation (ARAF), which would typically handle such matters. Alembekova, classified as an International-Level Athlete, tested positive for recombinant erythropoietin (r-EPO), a prohibited substance, during an out-of-competition doping test on June 2, 2015. Both her A and B samples confirmed the presence of r-EPO, a substance known to enhance endurance performance. The IAAF notified Alembekova of the adverse finding and her procedural rights, including the option to request a hearing. However, she initially withdrew her request for a B-sample analysis due to financial constraints but later reinstated it after securing funds. The B-sample analysis confirmed the initial findings.
Since ARAF was suspended, the IAAF assumed responsibility for disciplinary proceedings. Alembekova was informed of her right to a hearing but failed to respond within the stipulated deadline, effectively waiving her right to contest the findings. The case was referred to CAS under IAAF Rule 38.19, which allows for direct submission to CAS when national federations are unable to adjudicate. The CAS panel concluded that the presence of r-EPO, a non-threshold substance, constituted an anti-doping violation regardless of quantity. Alembekova failed to provide any evidence or explanations to justify the presence of r-EPO or demonstrate that the violation was unintentional. Consequently, the panel imposed a four-year period of ineligibility, the standard sanction for a first-time intentional violation under IAAF rules.
The decision underscores the strict liability principle in anti-doping regulations, holding athletes accountable for prohibited substances in their systems unless they can prove lack of intent or fault. The case also highlights the procedural mechanisms when national federations are unable to adjudicate disputes, allowing direct referral to CAS. The ruling reaffirms the zero-tolerance approach to doping in international athletics. Alembekova’s competitive results from June 2, 2015, to the start of her provisional suspension on July 17, 2015, were disqualified, leading to forfeiture of titles, medals, and prize money. The panel noted systemic doping concerns among Russian race walkers, citing multiple cases involving athletes from the same training center. The lack of cooperation from Alembekova and ARAF further reinforced the need for strict sanctions.
The final award, issued on October 13, 2016, dismissed all other motions and requests for relief, emphasizing the importance of upholding the integrity of competitive sports. The case serves as a reminder of the severe consequences of doping violations and the rigorous enforcement of anti-doping regulations by international sports bodies. The panel’s decision reflects the challenges in combating systemic doping and the role of organizations like CAS in ensuring fair competition.