The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has today informed UK Athletics that it has dismissed the appeal filed by Christine Ohuruogu in relation to the decision of the UK Athletics Independent Disciplinary Committee.

As a result of this decision, Christine Ohuruogu remains ineligible to compete until 6 August 2007 (one year from the date of the original ban).

The CAS decision states:

“This case should serve as a warning to all athletes that the relevant authorities take the provision of whereabouts information extremely seriously as they are a vital part in the ongoing fight against drugs in the sport.

“There is no suggestion that she is guilty of taking drugs in order to enhance her performance or otherwise and, indeed, this case can be viewed in all the circumstances as a busy young athlete being forgetful.”

UK Athletics Chairman Ed Warner said:

“UK Athletics has followed its rules and procedures in this case which has now been concluded following the CAS decision.

“As CAS noted, this ban may appear harsh on Christine. However, the rules in force for anti-doping offences at the time of the missed test have been upheld. UK Athletics is committed to working with all anti-doping agencies to ensure an out-of-competition testing regime is in place that is transparent and fair to all athletes, and that is harmonised across all sports. 

“We welcome CAS’ confirmation that there is no suggestion that Christine is guilty of taking drugs, and would like to see her return to competition following the conclusion of her ban.”