Can Athletes Use CBD During Competitions? What Every Olympic and Pro Needs to Know in 2025

Introduction

The sports world is evolving rapidly, and with it, the conversation around CBD use among athletes has exploded. As we move through 2025, one question keeps surfacing again and again—can athletes use CBD during competitions? If you’re a pro athlete, Olympic hopeful, coach, or just someone trying to push your limits, the answer to this question could make a real difference in your performance and recovery.

We’ll explain all you need to know in simple terms in this tutorial. We’re diving into the science, the rules, the real-life stories, and yes—even the legal minefield surrounding CBD in sports. This isn’t just about popping a supplement; it’s about your future, your career, and your health. Whether you’re sprinting for gold or grinding through the playoffs, understanding how athletes use CBD could be your competitive edge—or your Achilles’ heel.

Let’s be clear—this is not just another wellness trend. From NFL linebackers to UFC fighters, many elite athletes are turning to CBD for pain relief, recovery, and mental clarity. But there’s still confusion, myths, and half-truths clouding the topic. We’re here to clear it all up, one step at a time.

Understanding CBD

Before we go deep, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page. The natural substance known as CBD (cannabidiol) is produced by the cannabis plant. It’s part of a group of substances known as cannabinoids. The most well-known cannabinoid, of course, is THC—the psychoactive compound that gets you high. However, since CBD isn’t psychoactive, it does not affect your mental health. You won’t get “stoned” or “buzzed” from taking CBD.

Here’s where it gets interesting: while THC can be banned in most competitive sports, CBD has been removed from the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) prohibited list since 2018. That’s right—CBD is technically allowed. But—and this is a big but—only if it’s pure CBD. A failed drug test might result from the mislabeling of several items or the presence of small levels of THC.

In 2025, the market is flooded with all kinds of CBD products—oils, gummies, capsules, creams, even infused drinks. But just because it says “CBD” doesn’t mean it’s safe or legal for competition. Some are full-spectrum (contain other cannabinoids including THC), some are broad-spectrum (no THC), and some are isolates (just pure CBD). Understanding this difference is crucial for any athlete.

Moreover, not every country or state sees eye-to-eye when it comes to CBD. In some places, it’s completely legal; in others, it’s treated like a controlled substance. So, when we ask if teen athletes use CBD, the answer is complicated—it depends on the rules of the sport, the type of CBD, and even where the athlete is competing.

History of CBD in Sports

It might surprise you, but CBD and sports go way back—even before it hit the mainstream wellness world. The earliest adopters were often athletes struggling with chronic pain, sleep issues, and inflammation that traditional medications couldn’t fix. And let’s face it—anyone who’s had a torn ligament or constant concussions knows how brutal recovery can be.

In the late 2010s and early 2020s, a few bold athletes started speaking up. Take Nate Diaz, a UFC fighter, who openly vaped CBD at a post-fight press conference in 2016. That moment sparked controversy but also curiosity. Then came NFL players like Rob Gronkowski and MLB legends like David Wells, who credited CBD with transforming their post-retirement health.

Over time, their stories helped normalize CBD in the sports world. Teams, trainers, and even some leagues began quietly researching its effects. Fast forward to 2025, and you’ll find athletes use CBD openly, in training rooms, locker rooms, and rehab centers. But not all stories were smooth sailing. Several athletes were suspended after testing positive for THC, even though they claimed only to use “legal CBD.”

These cases show just how tricky the CBD landscape can be. While the benefits are becoming undeniable, the risks of contamination, regulation, and misunderstanding still haunt the community. The road to acceptance hasn’t been easy, but the movement has grown stronger, more informed, and much more vocal.

WADA and CBD in 2025

Here’s where things get official. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) sets the global standards for banned substances in sports. Back in 2018, they made headlines by removing CBD from the prohibited list, but they didn’t give it a green light entirely. WADA still bans all other cannabinoids, including THC, which means any trace amount found in a CBD product could disqualify an athlete.

In 2025, that rule still stands. CBD is allowed, but only if it’s 100% pure. And here’s the twist—many athletes fail drug tests from contaminated CBD products, not because they took THC on purpose. That’s why WADA constantly reminds athletes to use third-party tested CBD from verified brands.

To make it trickier, each Olympic organizing committee can add its layer of rules. For example, the 2024 Paris Olympics allowed CBD under strict guidelines, but athletes had to submit product samples before use. The forthcoming 2028 LA Games are anticipated to be no different. That means if you’re an Olympic hopeful or competing internationally, your CBD intake needs to be documented, verified, and squeaky clean.

The takeaway? Even though athletes can use CBD, it comes with strings attached. You’re walking a legal tightrope—one wrong step, and you could lose your medal, your sponsorships, or even your shot at the big stage.

Can Professional Athletes Use CBD in 2025?

Let’s break it down by sport. Every professional league has its stance on CBD, and some are more lenient than others. In the NFL, the league has relaxed its drug policy in recent years. Now athletes use CBD for recovery and pain, as long as they avoid THC. Several stars have even partnered with CBD brands to promote education and safe usage.

The NBA no longer conducts random cannabis tests, but they are a little more careful. This gives players some breathing room, though, again, it’s all about making sure the product doesn’t contain banned compounds. MLB (Major League Baseball) went even further. They not only allow CBD but also formed partnerships with CBD companies in 2023 to promote athlete wellness.

Over in the UFC, things are different. Because fighters are often independently contracted, they follow the USADA guidelines, which align with WADA. Thus, THC is prohibited while pure CBD is permitted. Some fighters and athletes use CBD oils and muscle rubs religiously as part of their post-fight recovery.

What about international sports like soccer or track and field? FIFA and the IAAF defer to WADA rules, meaning it’s the same tightrope walk—CBD is fine, as long as it’s pure and well-documented.

Here’s the bottom line: professional athletes use CBD, but they need to be hyper-aware of their league’s testing policies. A contaminated gummy or mislabeled tincture can cost more than just a game—it can ruin a career.

Benefits of CBD for Athletes

For professional and amateur athletes alike, CBD is no longer just a wellness buzzword—it’s a game-changer. Why, then, are so many using it? Because the benefits are hard to ignore. Whether you’re sprinting on the track or enduring brutal tackles on the field, the physical toll is real, and CBD offers natural support where traditional methods often fall short.

Let’s start with pain management. Ask any athlete about injuries, and you’ll get a laundry list: sprains, strains, tendinitis, joint aches, you name it. While NSAIDs and opioids have long been the go-to remedies, they come with risks—addiction, liver damage, and stomach ulcers. CBD offers a safer alternative. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to modulate pain signals naturally, without the harsh side effects.

Then there’s inflammation, the silent enemy of performance. After intense workouts, inflammation can leave you stiff, sore, and unable to train at full capacity. But CBD has shown significant anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing cytokine production and improving cellular repair, CBD helps athletes bounce back faster and with less downtime.

One of the most overlooked benefits is how CBD helps improve sleep and recovery. Good sleep is non-negotiable for muscle growth and repair, yet stress and physical discomfort often sabotage rest. Many athletes use CBD report deeper, more restful sleep. And when you’re getting quality Zzz’s, your body performs better the next day. It’s that simple.

Mental health is another huge factor. Anxiety before big games, depression during off-seasons, burnout from constant pressure—these are real issues. CBD doesn’t just help the body—it helps the brain too, by promoting calmness and stabilizing mood without impairing function. It’s like a mental massage that enables you to focus, stay composed, and perform under pressure.

Please put all of this together, and it’s easy to see why athletes use CBD more than ever in 2025. From reducing physical pain to improving emotional resilience, CBD offers a full-spectrum wellness solution that aligns with the rigorous demands of sports.

Potential Risks and Concerns

Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. For every benefit, there’s a potential pitfall—and athletes need to be aware of the risks of using CBD, especially in high-stakes competitions. The number one issue? Mislabeling. The CBD industry, though growing rapidly, still struggles with inconsistent regulation. A study published in 2024 showed that nearly 60% of CBD products contained THC, despite being labeled “THC-free.”

For athletes, this is a nightmare. Even trace amounts of THC can trigger a failed drug test, resulting in suspensions or bans. Third-party testing and product transparency are, therefore, essential. Always look for certificates of analysis (COAs) from independent labs, not just fancy branding.

Then there’s the issue of contamination. Certain CBD products, particularly those obtained from foreign or unreliable producers, may be contaminated with synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or heavy metals. These contaminants not only jeopardize your health but also risk disqualification from sport if detected during doping tests.

Even when pure, CBD can interact with other medications. If you’re an athlete taking prescription drugs for blood pressure, pain, or mental health, CBD may interfere with how your body metabolizes those substances. Always consult a sports physician before adding CBD to your regimen.

Lastly, there’s the psychological aspect. Some athletes rely too heavily on CBD as a “cure-all,” neglecting other essentials like diet, sleep hygiene, and proper training techniques. Remember, CBD is a tool, not a miracle.

So yes, while the rewards can be significant, athletes using CBD must proceed with caution, educate themselves, and make informed decisions to stay safe and compliant.

How to Choose the Right CBD Product

Not all CBD is created equal, and in the world of sports, this matters more than ever. Selecting the appropriate CBD product can make or break your performance—and your reputation—whether you’re preparing for a championship fight or your next marathon.

Start by understanding the three major types:

• Full-spectrum CBD contains all the natural compounds from the cannabis plant, including trace THC.
• Broad-spectrum CBD includes cannabinoids and terpenes, but removes THC.
• Pure cannabidiol, devoid of any other plant components, is what CBD isolate is.

For most competitive athletes, broad-spectrum or isolate is the safest bet. You still get many benefits of CBD without risking THC contamination.

Next, check for lab certifications. A reputable brand will always provide third-party lab results showing exactly what’s in the bottle. Look for:

• Cannabinoid content (does it match the label?)
• Absence of THC (very important!)
• No heavy metals, pesticides, or contaminants

Also, pay attention to dosage and form. Oils and tinctures offer precise control and fast absorption, while capsules are easy for daily use. Topicals work best for localized pain, like sore knees or stiff shoulders. And while CBD gummies are convenient, they’re harder to dose consistently and may have added sugars or chemicals.

Brand reputation matters too. Stick with names that have a proven track record with athletes. In 2025, several companies like Medterra, Charlotte’s Web, and PureKana are known for their athlete-safe formulations and transparency.

So, don’t just grab the first CBD bottle you see at the local store. Do your homework, check the label, and choose wisely. Your performance, safety, and eligibility depend on it.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using CBD Safely in Sports

It doesn’t have to be difficult to begin your adventure with CBD. Here’s a simple, athlete-friendly guide to get you started safely and effectively.

Step 1: Consult a Sports Medical Professional

Always start with a conversation. A sports doctor or nutritionist can evaluate your specific needs and offer guidance on how CBD fits into your training and recovery. They’ll also check for any potential drug interactions or health conditions that could be affected.

Step 2: Choose the Right Product

Stick to broad-spectrum or CBD isolate. Avoid full-spectrum unless you’re sure it’s free of THC. Look for COAs (Certificates of Analysis), and only purchase from brands that cater to athletes or offer transparency.

Step 3: Start Low and Go Slow

Begin with a low dose—usually 10-15 mg per day—and track how your body responds. Increase gradually if needed, but don’t rush. Some athletes feel effects quickly; others may need a few weeks of consistent use.

Step 4: Track Everything

Keep a journal. Note the dose, the time of day you take it, and how you feel. Track your energy levels, mental clarity, pain, and sleep quality. Over time, this data will help you find your “sweet spot.”

Step 5: Stay Informed

Rules change. What’s legal today might not be tomorrow. Subscribe to WADA updates, follow your league’s announcements, and stay connected with athlete communities that focus on CBD and sports performance.

CBD isn’t a magic pill—but when used correctly, it can be a powerful addition to your training, recovery, and mental wellness.

Common Misconceptions About CBD

Despite its popularity, CBD is still widely misunderstood, especially in the world of sports. Let’s set the record straight on some of the biggest myths floating around locker rooms and training centers in 2025.

“CBD gets you high”

Nope, not even close. This is the most common misconception. Since CBD is not psychoactive, it does not result in the “high” that comes with marijuana. That feeling comes from THC, a completely different compound. Athletes using pure CBD won’t feel intoxicated or impaired—in fact, many report increased focus and clarity.

“CBD is banned in all sports”

Wrong again. Since 2018, WADA has removed CBD from its list of banned substances, and many leagues have followed suit. However, what’s still banned is THC and other cannabinoids. The problem arises when athletes use CBD products that are mislabeled or contaminated with THC, which can lead to disqualification. So while athletes use CBD, they must be meticulous about sourcing.

“All CBD products are the same”

This one could cost you. CBD products vary wildly in quality, dosage, and cannabinoid content. Some are pure isolates; others are full-spectrum and loaded with THC. Some contain heavy metals or chemicals. That’s why third-party testing is a must. Always read the label, review the COA (Certificate of Analysis), and know exactly what you’re putting into your body.

“You can’t fail a drug test using CBD”

If the CBD is pure and free of THC, then this is technically true. But many “CBD-only” products contain trace amounts of THC, just enough to accumulate and trigger a positive drug test. Athletes use CBD at their own risk unless they’ve verified the product is 100% clean.

In short, don’t believe the hype or hearsay. Educate yourself and make informed choices. Myths can not only mislead you—they can derail your entire athletic career.

The Role of Coaches and Teams in CBD Use

In today’s competitive landscape, it’s not just athletes who need to be informed—coaches and team organizations play a vital role in supporting safe and legal CBD use. A well-informed team can help prevent mistakes, ensure compliance with regulations, and create an environment where athletes can thrive.

First, education is key. Coaches, team doctors, and support staff must understand the difference between CBD and THC, the legality of each, and how they interact with drug-testing policies. They need to stay up-to-date with WADA rulings, league-specific regulations, and current research. Without this knowledge, they risk giving bad advice—or worse, staying silent while athletes make harmful decisions.

Second, teams should implement clear CBD policies. That includes protocols for product selection, dosage guidelines, and what athletes should do if they want to incorporate CBD into their training. Ideally, this would involve collaboration with sports medicine professionals who can evaluate individual needs and risks.

Third, support is crucial. When athletes know their coaches are behind them, they feel empowered to explore natural solutions like CBD. Some forward-thinking teams now offer approved CBD products in their training facilities, complete with documentation, COAs, and usage guidelines. This proactive approach reduces confusion, increases trust, and promotes better health outcomes.

Lastly, communication is everything. Athletes should feel comfortable discussing CBD openly with their team staff. That transparency leads to smarter choices, fewer mistakes, and better overall performance.

Bottom line? Teams that support athletes using CBD safely and legally give themselves a competitive advantage, not just on the scoreboard, but in long-term athlete wellness.

CBD vs. Traditional Medications in Sports

Athletes have long relied on pharmaceuticals to manage pain, inflammation, and mental stress. But in 2025, the tide is turning. More and more athletes are weighing CBD vs. conventional drugs, and the outcomes are changing the way sports medicine is practiced.

Let’s take pain relief as a starting point. Opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone are powerful but addictive. Long-term use can lead to dependency, withdrawal symptoms, and in some cases, career-ending consequences. CBD, by contrast, provides non-addictive pain management with minimal side effects.

Next up—anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen and naproxen. These are staples in every athlete’s toolkit, but long-term use can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, and cardiovascular issues. CBD, on the other hand, works naturally with the body’s endocannabinoid system to reduce inflammation without causing organ stress.

What about anxiety and sleep disorders? Athletes are often prescribed antidepressants or sleeping pills, both of which can impair performance and cause side effects like drowsiness, mood swings, or dependency. CBD offers a gentler solution, promoting natural sleep cycles and mental calmness without grogginess.

Cost is also a factor. Prescription meds can be expensive, especially without insurance. While high-quality CBD products aren’t cheap, they’re often more affordable in the long run, especially when used for prevention and recovery.

Of course, traditional medications have their place. In cases of acute injury or surgery, strong drugs may be necessary. But as a daily wellness tool, CBD provides a safer, cleaner alternative that aligns with modern sports values—sustainability, recovery, and holistic health.

Anecdotes from Athletes Using CBD

Sometimes, the best evidence isn’t found in a lab—it’s found in the locker room. Across the globe, athletes using CBD are sharing powerful stories of transformation, healing, and peak performance.

Take Jasmine Lee, an Olympic sprinter who battled chronic shin splints for years. Physical therapy and ice baths only did so much. After consulting her trainer, she began using a CBD-infused recovery balm after runs. Within weeks, the inflammation reduced, and she shaved half a second off her time. “Her words, ‘It was like night and day,’ ‘For the first time in years, I ran without pain.”

Then there’s Marcus Rivera, a former NFL linebacker turned MMA fighter. Years of concussions left him with migraines, insomnia, and anxiety. Prescription meds dulled the pain but stole his motivation. CBD changed that. “I started with CBD oil under the tongue every morning,” he shares. “I felt clear-headed, calmer, and the headaches faded. I wanted to train again.”

And who could forget Sara Patel, a college swimmer suspended for testing positive for THC from a mislabeled CBD tincture? Instead of quitting, she launched a campaign for better CBD labeling, helping other athletes avoid the same fate. Today, she’s an ambassador for safe CBD use in youth sports.

These stories aren’t just inspiring—they’re cautionary too. They show that while CBD can enhance performance and well-being, it must be used responsibly. From track stars to weekend warriors, more athletes are finding that CBD is more than a supplement—it’s a strategy.

Future of CBD in Competitive Sports

What’s next for CBD in the athletic world? If trends continue, the future looks bright—and revolutionary. In 2025, researchers are conducting deeper studies into how CBD enhances sports performance, not just recovery. Early data shows that CBD may improve muscle oxygenation, balance neurotransmitters, and even speed up muscle regeneration after injury.

Tech integration is also on the rise. Imagine smart patches that deliver CBD microdoses while tracking muscle fatigue, hydration, and stress levels in real-time. These aren’t science fiction—they’re in beta testing with elite sports labs.

There’s also a growing push for standardized regulation. Governments and sports organizations are working on unified CBD guidelines, which could bring clarity to what’s legal, what’s safe, and what’s effective. This will open the door for even more athletes to embrace CBD without fear of punishment.

Lastly, education will expand. New certification programs are training coaches and athletic trainers in CBD science, and universities are even launching sports + cannabis wellness majors. The message is unmistakable: CBD is becoming popular and won’t go away.

As the stigma fades and knowledge grows, athletes using CBD will no longer be a headline—it will be the norm. And that shift might usher in a new era of healthier, more balanced sports culture.

Conclusion

So, can athletes use CBD during competitions in 2025? The answer is a confident “yes”—but only if they do it the right way. CBD offers tremendous benefits for pain relief, inflammation, mental clarity, and recovery, but it’s not without risks. Athletes need to be informed, careful, and compliant with league and WADA rules.

From choosing the right product to understanding testing procedures, it takes effort and education to use CBD effectively in sports. But for those who do, the rewards can be game-changing. Whether you’re chasing a championship or just trying to feel better after a tough workout, CBD might be the edge you’ve been looking for.