The ITA acknowledges the CAS ADD decision sanctioning weightlifter Xiaojun Lyu

The International Testing Agency (ITA), leading an independent anti-doping program on behalf of the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF), reports that weightlifter Xiaojun Lyu has been sanctioned with a four-year period of ineligibility after testing positive for the prohibited substance erythropoietin (EPO).

As previously reported by the ITA a sample collected from Xiaojun Lyu during an out-of-competition testing mission conducted by the ITA on 30 October 2022 returned an Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF) ¹ for EPO. EPO is prohibited under the WADA Prohibited List as peptide hormone (S2). EPO stimulates erythropoiesis (red blood cell production) and can modify the body’s capacity to transport oxygen and, therefore, increase stamina and performance. EPO is prohibited at all times (in- and out-of-competition).

Considering that EPO is a non-specified substance, Xiaojun Lyu was provisionally suspended by the ITA upon notification of his AAF on 20 December 2022.

Following the results management process conducted by the ITA, the matter was submitted for adjudication to CAS ADD.

After hearing the parties and considering the written submissions and evidence, on 22 May 2025, CAS ADD issued its final award holding that the athlete had committed an Anti-Doping Rule Violation for the presence of a prohibited substance in accordance with Article 2.1 of the IWF anti-doping rules (IWF ADR).

As a result, CAS ADD has imposed a four-year period of ineligibility on Xiaojun Lyu from 30 October 2022 to 29 October 2026. Additionally, all results obtained by the athlete from 30 October 2022 until 20 December 2022, have been disqualified.

Parties with a right of appeal may challenge the decisions before the appeal division of CAS in accordance with article 13.3.2 of the IWF ADR.

The ITA will not comment further on this case.