The First Instance Decision:
The French Cycling Federation (FFC) decided on 10 June 2015 to impose a 18 month period of ineligibility on the Athlete M65 after he tested positive for the prohibited substance Methylphenidate (Ritalin).
Hereafter the French Anti-Doping Agency (AFLD) appealed the FFC First Instance Decision.
The Athlete:
M65 admitted the violation and denied the intentional use of the substance. He asserted that het used the Ritalin for his personal problems, that he already was sanctioned by the FFC and he requested for a reduced sanction.
The AFLD:
The French Anti-Doping Agency contended that the Athlete failed to produce a medical prescription for the Ritalin, failed to establish a medical justification for the use nor did he explain how he obtained the product.
The Decision:
The AFLD decides on 19 November 2015 to reform the FFC decision of 10 June 2015 and to impose a 2 year period of ineligibility on the Athlete M65 starting on the date of the notification.
