The use of medicinal cannabis in professional sports is a complex issue, with varying regulations depending on the sport and the league. While cannabis has been legalized for medicinal use in many U.S. states, its use in professional sports remains highly regulated and, in many cases, prohibited. This article explores whether professional athletes can use medicinal cannabis, even when prescribed by a doctor, and highlights the regulations governing cannabis use in different sports leagues.
Medicinal Cannabis: Legal in Some States, But What About Sports?
Medicinal cannabis is now legal in 39 U.S. states and several countries worldwide. It has been prescribed for chronic pain, anxiety, and other conditions commonly experienced by professional athletes. Despite its medical legality, many professional sports leagues still prohibit cannabis use, even with a prescription, due to concerns over performance enhancement, substance abuse, and federal restrictions, as cannabis remains illegal at the federal level in the United States.
Cannabis Regulations in Major U.S. Sports Leagues
- National Football League (NFL)
The NFL has historically had a strict anti-cannabis policy, with athletes facing suspensions for testing positive for THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. However, in 2020, the NFL made significant changes to its drug policy. Under the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the NFL has dramatically reduced penalties for cannabis use. Players are no longer suspended for positive tests, and testing for THC is limited to the first two weeks of training camp. However, cannabis use is still discouraged, and the league focuses on offering players treatment options rather than punishment【38†source】. - National Basketball Association (NBA)
The NBA, similar to the NFL, has long prohibited cannabis use among its athletes. However, in a 2021 announcement, the NBA stated it would no longer randomly test players for cannabis during the regular season. While cannabis is still officially banned, the league has shifted its approach, focusing on player health rather than punishment. This relaxation came during the COVID-19 pandemic and has been extended through subsequent seasons【39†source】. - Major League Baseball (MLB)
MLB has become one of the more progressive sports leagues regarding cannabis. In 2019, MLB removed cannabis from its list of banned substances for minor and major league players. However, athletes are still prohibited from being under the influence of cannabis during games or league activities. MLB players can use medicinal cannabis without facing disciplinary action, although the league advises players to consult with team doctors . - National Hockey League (NHL)
The NHL has a more lenient approach to cannabis use compared to other leagues. The league does not penalize players for testing positive for THC. Instead, if a player tests positive for elevated THC levels, they are referred to the league’s substance abuse program but face no suspensions or fines. The NHL is also known for being open to players using medicinal cannabis for pain management . - International Olympic Committee (IOC)
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), which governs anti-doping rules for the Olympics, continues to list cannabis as a prohibited substance. However, WADA raised the allowable THC threshold for athletes from 15 nanograms per milliliter to 150 ng/mL in 2013, acknowledging that cannabis use outside of competition is less concerning. Despite this, athletes can still face sanctions for testing positive for THC during competitions, as seen in the case of U.S. sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson in 2021 .
Can Athletes Use Medicinal Cannabis?
Even with a doctor’s prescription, professional athletes are often restricted from using cannabis due to league rules. The primary reasons for cannabis bans in sports include:
- Federal Law: Cannabis remains a Schedule I substance under U.S. federal law, creating complications for leagues that operate across state lines or in countries where cannabis is still illegal.
- Performance Concerns: Some argue that cannabis could potentially provide an unfair advantage, especially in sports where pain management and recovery are crucial.
- Public Image: Professional sports leagues are cautious about promoting cannabis use, as it could affect the league’s image and sponsorships.
The Future of Cannabis in Sports
While the attitude toward medicinal cannabis is softening in some leagues, others remain cautious. As cannabis continues to gain medical acceptance and legalization expands, it’s possible that more leagues will adapt their policies to reflect this shift. However, until federal law changes or sports leagues agree on cannabis’s role in recovery and performance, athletes may remain restricted, even with a prescription.
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