The Controversy of Performance Injections at the Winter Olympics

Sat Feb 07 2026 01:31:49 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As the Winter Olympics kick off, conversations surrounding potential performance-enhancing treatments, including injections, have taken center stage in ski jumping discussions.

With the Winter Olympics officially starting in Milan-Cortina, attention has turned to the possible use of hyaluronic acid injections in ski jumping. This practice, which could supposedly enhance performance by increasing the surface area of jumpers’ suits, has caught the interest of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Although there are no concrete findings that any athletes have engaged in this practice, WADA officials have stated they are willing to investigate any evidence that may arise. The men's ski jumping competition is set to begin soon, igniting a mix of excitement and skepticism at the Games.

Injecting Performance - The New Trend?

The World Anti-Doping Agency could investigate if evidence emerges that male ski jumpers are injecting their penises in a bid to improve sporting performance.

In January, a report by German newspaper Bild raised eyebrows by suggesting jumpers were injecting their penises with hyaluronic acid before being measured for their suits. This substance, which is not banned in sports, could potentially increase penis circumference by one to two centimeters.

The increase would amplify the surface area of the jumpers' suits during competition, possibly allowing them to fly further through the air, as confirmed by FIS ski jumping men's race director Sandro Pertile.

WADA officials are aware of the claims and stated, “If anything was to come to the surface, we would look at it and see if it is doping related.”

What's the Science Behind It?

Ski jumpers are measured using 3D body scanners wearing tight underwear at the start of each season. Their suits must conform to strict measurements with only a 2-4 cm tolerance. Injections could provide a competitive edge in these measurements.

Interestingly, injected hyaluronic acid can last up to 18 months, meaning athletes could have a longer-lasting benefit if they choose to engage in such practices.

Controversies in Ski Jumping

Past instances of suit tampering have raised eyebrows in the sport, including a case during the World Ski Championships in Trondheim, Norway, where Olympic medallists accepted suspensions for attempts to manipulate their suits undetected.

The men's ski jumping competition at the Winter Olympics is scheduled to begin shortly, amid the ongoing controversy and attention surrounding potential performance enhancements.