Cycling: The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has banned the use of the noble gases xenon and argon with immediate effect.
Both gases gained attention during the Sochi Winter Olympics. Neither xenon nor argon can be proven so far, but both are said to have a performance-enhancing effect. This is mainly due to the fact that they have a pain-relieving effect. According to WADA Chairman Craig Reedie, studies are also said to have shown that xenon stimulates the production of erythropoietin (EPO) and testosterone.
The ban applies immediately. The national anti-doping agencies are therefore required to adapt to the new guidelines over the next three months.