As the world federation announced, the banned substance LGD-4033 was detected in a retrospective analysis of a doping sample from Volikákis at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. The positive sample was taken on 16 August 2016 and was re-analysed as part of the International Testing Agency's (ITA) retesting programme for the Olympic Games in Rio. Volikákis was subsequently disqualified from the Games. The ban applies retroactively from 15 March 2024 and runs up to and including 14 March 2027.
Prohibited drug is medicine for cancer patients
The banned substance is a a so-called selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) and known under the trade name Ligandrol. It was originally developed to reduce muscle wastage in cancer patients caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. It is popular in bodybuilding circles because it promotes rapid muscle growth and strength development.
Post-test programme as an important tool
The post-test programme for Olympic samples is carried out by the ITA on behalf of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). It is part of the anti-doping efforts that the ITA has been managing independently for the IOC since 2018. The re-analysis of samples is intended to achieve an additional deterrent effect and expand the spectrum of possible rule violations beyond the original sample analysis.
The ITA explains that the retest programme enables further tests to be carried out on the basis of updated information, for example through investigations or when detection methods improve as a result of scientific advances. This means that doping offences that were not detectable at the time the sample was taken can still be discovered years after an event.
Consequences for the athlete
The proven doping offence has far-reaching consequences for the now 37-year-old Christos Volikákis. In addition to the three-year ban, he was subsequently disqualified from the 2016 Olympic Games. All his results achieved there were cancelled. At the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Volikákis finished twelfth in the keirin competition. He then switched from the short-time to the endurance disciplines and achieved several victories and podium finishes at the European Track Championships and World Cups.
