As part of the forum, a panel discussion titled “The Lawyer in the Field of Sports Legal Relations” was held — an area which, for our team, is not merely theoretical but part of our daily practice.
During the panel, the Managing Partner of Juris Ferrum Law Firm, attorney, PhD in Law, Ganna Gnizdovska, delivered a presentation: “World Anti-Doping Code 2027: Key Changes and Practical Implications”.
Key points of the presentation:
🔹 Changes in obtaining Therapeutic Use Exemptions.
The 2027 Code introduces a more flexible approach in cases where an athlete had legitimate medical grounds but did not obtain prior authorization. At the same time, the system becomes more centralized: the role of WADA is strengthened, clear review timelines are established, and a separate mechanism for appeal to CAS is предусмотрено.
🔹 From Contaminated Product to Contaminated Source.
The concept of a “contaminated source” significantly expands the scope of defense: it now includes not only supplements or medications, but also food, beverages, environmental exposure, or physical contact. Additionally, the criterion of a “reasonable artificial intelligence search” is introduced as an element of the athlete’s due diligence.
🔹 Substantial Assistance and Valuable Information.
The 2027 Code expands the mechanisms for reducing periods of ineligibility in cases of cooperation. For the first time, it provides for the consideration of “other valuable information,” even if it does not meet the traditional criteria of substantial assistance.
🔹 CAS proceedings are de novo.
CAS conducts a full rehearing of the case: facts, evidence, legal qualification, and sanctions are reassessed without deference to the findings of the first instance.
As emphasized by Ganna Gnizdovska, the World Anti-Doping Code 2027 changes not only the wording of legal provisions, but also the very architecture of doping disputes — from evidentiary standards to the construction of defense strategies.
We thank the organizers of KHARKIV UNBREAKABLE 2026 for the high level of the event and the meaningful professional dialogue 🤝