The Contamination Defence in Tennis: What The Domínguez Collado Anti-Doping Decision Demands of Athletes
In February 2026, tennis’ anti-doping body, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (the ITIA), published its decision[1] confirming that Guatemalan tennis player, Mr Juan Sebastián Domínguez Collado, bore No Fault or Negligence for an anti-doping rule violation (ADRV) committed in October 2025. The ITIA’s decision provides useful insight into the steps anti-doping bodies will expect athletes to take in order to prove their innocence in contamination-related cases. The key point for athletes to note is that, for a finding of No Fault or Negligence, they must be able to establish both the source of the contamination and that the contamination could not have been avoided even by “exercis[ing] the utmost caution” (explained below). Detailed record keeping is key to success on both fronts.
Article Overview
To continue reading or watching login or register here
Already a member? Sign in
Get access to all of the expert analysis and commentary at LawInSport including articles, webinars, conference videos and podcast transcripts. Find out more here.
- Tags: Anti-Doping | CAS | Contamination | Mexico | Tennis | Tennis Anti-Doping Programme | WADA | WADC
Written by
Liam Petch
Liam Petch is an Associate in King & Spalding’s Trial and Global Disputes practice in London. Liam trained with the firm, qualifying in 2022. Liam’s practice involves commercial and investment treaty arbitrations under leading institutional rules and English High Court litigation. His work covers a broad range of disputes across jurisdictions and sectors, including financial services, construction, energy, pharma, media and sports.
Charity R. Kirby
Charity Kirby is a Senior Associate in King & Spalding’s Trial and Global Disputes practice in the London office. Charity qualified in 2015, having trained with the firm. Charity has a wealth of experience in commercial litigation and arbitration and has acted in proceedings before the English High Court, the English Court of Appeal, Arbitral Tribunals under major international arbitration rules and in London based ad-hoc arbitrations.
