October 19, 2011 (Ottawa, Ontario) – The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport announced today that cyclist, Arnaud Papillon, received a two-year sanction for the use of erythropoietin (EPO) during the Canadian Road Championships.
Papillon, who was tested multiple times prior to, during and after the Canadian Championships, had two separate urine samples (one in-competition sample and one out-of competition sample) return adverse analytical findings for the presence of EPO, a prohibited substance on the World Anti-Doping Agency 2011Prohibited List.
Papillon waived his right to a hearing and accepted the proposed sanction of two years ineligibility from sport commencing August 12, 2011. The sanction prevents Papillon from participating in any capacity in any competition or in any sport-related activity, including training with team mates, authorized or organized by an organization that has adopted the Canadian Anti-Doping Program.
“It is always disappointing when we find that an athlete has attempted to cheat,” said Paul Melia, President and CEO of the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport. “However, it is even more disconcerting when we find out that the substance being used is as dangerous and sophisticated as EPO.”
The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport is an independent, national, not-for profit organization. We recognize that true sport can make a great difference for individuals, communities and our country. We are committed to working collaboratively to activate a values-based and principle-driven sport system; protecting the integrity of sport from the negative forces of doping and other unethical threats; and advocating for sport that is fair, safe and open to everyone.
Read Papillion’s confession (in French) HERE.