In November 2015 the International Swimming Federation (FINA) has reported an anti-doping rule violation against the Swimmer Vitalina Simonova after her sample tested positive for the prohibited substance testosterone.
After notification a provisional suspension was ordered. The Swimmer filed a statement in her defence and she was heard for the FINA Doping Panel. The Swimmer gave a prompt admission and stated that she non intentionally had used the product Testosterol purchased in a local athlete’s store during her stay in a traing camp in Greece. Test results afterwards from the Testosterol capsules showed the presence of deydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). The Swimmer asserted that she researched the ingredients of the product before using. The prohibited substance was not mentioned as ingredient on the label of the product and she mentioned the use of the product on the Doping Control Form.
Considering the Swimmer’s statement the Panel concludes that the Swimmer was careless and intentionally took the risk of ingesting a product which contained a prohibited substance.
Without grounds for reduction under the Rules the FINA Doping Panel decides on 6 July 2016 to impose a 4 year period of ineligibility on the Swimmer starting on the date of the sample collection, i.e. on 29 June 2015, including forfeiture of medals/prizes, reimbursement of prize-money.
