Motorsports are built on precision, reflexes, and safety—meaning substance policies aren’t just about fairness; they’re about protecting lives at 200 mph. From Formula 1 to NASCAR, every major racing body enforces its own version of a drug and alcohol code, some aligned with global anti-doping agencies and others governed internally.
FIA/Formula 1 and World Championships
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) follows the World Anti-Doping Code, meaning drivers can be tested in or out of competition. The FIA Anti-Doping Regulations mirror WADA’s banned list, covering anabolic agents, stimulants, and THC above threshold levels.
Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs) are available for legitimate medical needs, and any positive test can lead to disqualification, suspension, or the loss of championship points. Educational programs like the FIA’s Race True initiative also promote awareness across teams and junior series.
FIM/MotoGP and Motorcycle Racing
The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) maintains a unified Anti-Doping Code consistent with WADA standards. Riders in MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3 are subject to both in-competition and random testing by FIM or national agencies. Violations bring suspensions or stripped results, with a formal appeal process available.
NASCAR
NASCAR operates independently of WADA and runs its own Substance Abuse Policy.
All licensed participants—including drivers, pit crew, and spotters—must test negative before competition. NASCAR conducts random and for-cause testing throughout the season, managed by Drug Free Sport.
A positive test triggers an indefinite suspension, followed by the “Road to Recovery” program. High-profile cases like Spencer Gallagher’s 2018 suspension underscore the league’s zero-tolerance stance.
INDYCAR and INDY NXT
INDYCAR includes a full Substance Abuse Policy in its rulebook. All drivers and officials are subject to random and reasonable-cause testing. Violations result in suspension and mandatory evaluation before reinstatement. INDY NXT competitors follow similar procedures.
IMSA (Sports Car Racing)
The International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) enforces a detailed Substance Abuse Policy covering alcohol and drug use across the WeatherTech and VP Racing SportsCar Challenge series.
Drivers can be tested randomly or for cause, and IMSA encourages voluntary self-reporting for rehabilitation without automatic expulsion — a more progressive approach compared to other U.S. leagues.
NHRA Drag Racing
The National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) includes a strict Substance Abuse Policy in its official rulebook. Positive tests lead to suspension and loss of points, and reinstatement requires counseling and a follow-up evaluation. The NHRA also regulates fuel and chemical use in competition vehicles for safety and fairness.
Common Themes Across Motorsports
- Safety first: Every program prioritizes impairment prevention as much as doping control.
- THC & CBD: Cannabis remains banned above set thresholds under WADA, though CBD itself isn’t prohibited — still, contamination risks make it tricky.
- Transparency & due process: Most programs allow appeal rights and B-sample analysis.
- Consistency challenge: WADA governs FIA and FIM, while NASCAR, INDYCAR, IMSA, and NHRA run independent programs — creating global inconsistencies in enforcement.
From Monaco to Daytona, motorsport’s zero-tolerance philosophy is clear: in a sport where milliseconds decide championships, sobriety and safety are non-negotiable.