The Australian and New Zealand Sports Law Journal 2007

The UCI ProTour: An Enduring Reform or a “Train Wreck” Waiting to Happen?  

Lloyd Freeburn

In 2005, significant reforms were introduced in professional road cycling by the sport’s governing body, the “UCI”. Those reforms are now threatened by an entrenched dispute between the UCI and the owners of the sports’ most prestigious races. The outcome of the dispute, while uncertain, will be influenced by  the legal structures and characters of the bodies involved. These structures and the issues raised by the conflict, including the implications of European Community competition law, are examined. It is argued that despite some defects in its democratic structure, the role of the UCI as the governing body of the sport gives its position greater legitimacy than that of the private owners of cycling races.

Should Athletes be Tested for Recreational Drugs? Three Sporting Federations Kick Around the Proverbial Football

Saul Fridman, Chris Davies and Anne Amos

The question of illicit drugs in sport has been one that has recently dominated the media’s coverage of sport. Players in rugby union, rugby league and Australian football have tested positive for recreational drugs, or have admitted using such drugs. Also an issue are the policies adopted by the various codes in regard to the testing of such drugs out of competition. At present the AFL has a three-strike policy, which means that players will only suffer consequences after a third positive test. The NRL will be adopting a two-strike policy, while rugby union has yet to adopt any out-of-competition testing or policy. It is suggested that with the AFL’s policy being based on the education, rehabilitation and health of the players, a three-strike policy is an appropriate one for that particular organisation.