If we believe you have broken anti-doping rules, we will contact you to start the anti-doping rule violation process. This process and its consequences can be confusing and stressful. We encourage you to: 

• organise legal support early in the process using our Legal Support Fund;

• access any wellbeing support you may need; 

• read about the process.

Anyone going through an anti-doping rule violation process is eligible for free and confidential counselling through EAP Services. We will tell you how to access the service early on in the process. You can access the service at any time during the anti-doping rule violation process or during a sanction. 

Counselling is available face-to-face, online or by phone. It is provided by a third-party service that protects your anonymity. Your details will not be shared with us. 

Explore alternative support services

The process starts when we allege that you have breached the Sports Anti-Doping Rules. It ends when a decision has been made about your case. 

The process is confidential. It can feel long and complicated, but you will have the chance to have your case heard. 

Key phases of the process you may encounter include: 

• Investigation or positive test: You test positive for a banned substance or are investigated for an anti-doping rule violation 

• Notification: You and your sport are formally notified of the alleged breach. 

• B-sample analysis: You can choose to have your B-sample analysed at no cost. This is to check whether it matches the A-sample. 

• Anti-doping proceedings: This can involve submitting evidence and having a hearing before the Sports Tribunal (or NZ Rugby Judicial Committee if your sport is rugby union). 

• Decision: A decision is reached. The Sports Tribunal or NZ Rugby Judicial Committee may impose a sanction and other consequences.

• Publication: Your anti-doping rule violation is made public.