Following an In-Competition drug test conducted by South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS), amateur cyclist Manqoba Priest Madida has been banned for 3 years after returning positive results for experimental drugs RAD140 (Testalone) and the LGD4033 (Ligandrol).

The 25 year-old South African BMX National Champion tested positive after winning two National BMX Cup races on 22-23 June 2024, according to SAIDS.

RAD140 and LGD4033 are from a group of performance and image enhancing drugs advertised as muscle-building supplements, but are actually experimental Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator (SARM) drugs under development to treat muscle-wasting diseases and cancer.

SARMs have yet to be approved for human use in any capacity, with potential side-effects including debilitating and life-altering complications: stroke, high blood pressure, heart attack, liver failure and infertility.

Both drugs are banned at all times by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), but are readily sold online and may be found off-label in nutritional supplements available at retailers worldwide.

Madida, who has been a BMX racer since age 11, is now banned from participating in sport in any capacity until 19 August 2027.

Photo Credit: SAIDS, Instagram/manqoba1281