In July 2018, UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) was informed that the UK Border Forced had intercepted and seized a package addressed to the rugby player Ralph Rainbow and contained Human Growth Hormone. In January 2020 in an interview with UKAD the Athlete admitted the purchase of this substance.
Hereafter in September 2018 the Rugby Football Union (RFU) reported 2 anti-doping rule violations against the Athlete for Possession (by purchase) and Use or Attempted Use of the prohibited substance Human Growth Hormone.
After notification a provisional suspension was ordered. Because the Athlete indicated that he did not wish to contest the charges the National Anti-Doping Panel renders a Decision based on the written submissions of the Parties.
The RFU contends that the Athlete had admitted the violations and had not disputed the charges. There was no evidence that the violation was not intentional nor were there grounds for a reduced sanction.
The Panel finds that the Athlete has committed the anti-doping rule violations and as he has not disputed the charges, he is deemded to have admitted the violations and to have waived his right for a hearing.
Therefore the National Anti-Doping Panel decides on 11 February 2021 to impose a 4 year period of ineligibility on the Athlete starting on the date of the provisional suspension, i.e. 30 September 2020.
