IPC Imposes Three-Year Ban on Iranian Para Athlete Sajad Mohammadian
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has banned Iranian Para athletics athlete Sajad Mohammadian for three years following an anti-doping rule violation (ADRV) under the IPC Anti-Doping Code. The suspension follows a positive test result for a prohibited substance during out-of-competition testing.
Details of the Violation
On October 10, 2023, Mohammadian provided a urine sample as part of routine out-of-competition testing. Subsequent analysis revealed the presence of methasterone and its metabolite, a substance classified under the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) 2023 Prohibited List as an S1.1 Anabolic Androgenic Steroid. Methasterone is a powerful anabolic steroid that enhances muscle growth and performance, and it is strictly banned at all times, regardless of whether an athlete is competing or training.
As a result of this adverse analytical finding (AAF), the IPC provisionally suspended Mohammadian on December 1, 2023, pending a full resolution of the case.
Admission and Consequences
Mohammadian admitted to the ADRV and accepted the consequences proposed by the IPC. Consequently, he is ineligible to compete or participate in any sporting activities—except for authorized anti-doping education or rehabilitation programs—for a period of three years, effective from December 1, 2023, to November 30, 2026.
Furthermore, all results achieved by the athlete between October 10, 2023, (the date of sample collection) and December 1, 2023, (the start of his provisional suspension) have been disqualified. This disqualification includes the forfeiture of any medals, ranking points, or prizes obtained during that period.
Previous Anti-Doping Violation
This is the second time Mohammadian has been sanctioned for an anti-doping rule violation. In 2021, an Iran National Anti-Doping Organization (NADO) hearing panel determined that he had committed an ADRV involving Methadone, a specified substance under WADA regulations. However, in that case, the panel ruled that Mohammadian bore No Significant Fault or Negligence, which resulted in a less severe sanction.
Because the previous ADRV was deemed to have occurred with reduced fault or negligence, this second violation was not classified as a ‘multiple violation’ under the IPC Anti-Doping Code. If it had been, the athlete would have faced a significantly longer period of ineligibility.
Athlete Responsibility and Anti-Doping Regulations
Under the IPC and WADA’s anti-doping regulations, athletes are strictly liable for any substances found in their samples. This means that an ADRV occurs whenever a prohibited substance, its metabolites, or markers are detected—regardless of whether the athlete intentionally used the substance, was negligent, or was otherwise at fault.
Strict liability is a fundamental principle of anti-doping enforcement, ensuring fairness and accountability in sport. It places the responsibility on athletes to be fully aware of and comply with anti-doping regulations, including checking medications, supplements, and any substances they ingest.
IPC’s Commitment to Clean Sport
As a signatory of the World Anti-Doping Code (WADC), the IPC remains dedicated to maintaining a doping-free sporting environment at all levels. The IPC Anti-Doping Code aligns with the general principles of the WADC, including the International Standards set forth by WADA.
The IPC continues to lead efforts in the fight against doping in Para sport, ensuring that all athletes compete on a fair and level playing field. Through stringent testing, education programs, and enforcement of anti-doping policies, the IPC upholds the integrity of Para athletics and safeguards the health and well-being of its athletes.