WADA News

Updated WADA Athlete Guide Now Available

The fifth edition of the WADA Athlete Guide is now online. This booklet available in three languages (English, French and Spanish) highlights athletes’ rights and responsibilities relating to the doping control process. It also provides athletes with an overview of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) and of the various players involved in the fight against doping in sport under the Code. The Athlete Guide was updated to reflect revisions to the Code and the International Standards which went into force on January 1, 2009. Click here for the Athlete Guide.

Revisions to World Anti-Doping Code, International Standards, Come into Force January 1, 2009

Revisions to the World Anti-Doping Code and its related International Standards for Testing, Laboratories and Therapeutic Use Exemptions, as well as the 2009 Prohibited List and the new International Standard for the Protection of Privacy and Personal Information come into force on January 1, 2009. These amended anti-doping rules will help further strengthen anti-doping programs worldwide, including by providing for an increase of sanctions in doping cases involving aggravating circumstances in all sports. The 2009 Code and Standards, and Q&As highlighting key amendments, can be found here. The latest issue of WADA’s flagship magazine, Play True, also focuses on these amendments. Click here to download a copy of Play True.

WADA President Addresses Coaches Summit, Meets Japanese Officials in Tokyo

WADA’s President, the Hon. John Fahey, traveled to Tokyo in early December to address 400 coaches, trainers and sports doctors who were participating in the Japanese National Coaches Summit. On this occasion, Mr Fahey and the Japanese Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Mr Ryu Shionoya, signed an agreement following which the Japanese government will provide a financial support to the development of existing Regional Anti-Doping Organizations (RADOs) in Asia. Click here for a picture of the signing of the agreement.

WADA Announces Appointments to 2009 Standing Committees

WADA is pleased to announce the appointments of its Standing Committees for the year 2009. The Standing Committees play a key advisory role in policy and priority development for the international agency responsible for monitoring and coordinating the global fight against doping in sport. The Committee appointments were approved by WADA’s Foundation Board at its November 23 meeting. Nominations for committee membership are sought each year from WADA’s stakeholders, including governments and sports authorities. A rotation system ensures that one-third of members are replaced every year. The Committees report to the Executive Committee, WADA’s supreme decision-making body. Memberships to the Standing Committees, to commence on January 1, 2009, are listed here. WADA’s Expert Groups, whose mandates are to provide specific expert advice on certain areas, are also included.

WADA’s President Address to the European Union Sports Ministers Meeting

On November 27, WADA’s President John Fahey addressed the European Sports Ministers Meeting in Biarritz, France. Click here for the speech.

WADA Advances Cooperation with Interpol, Athlete Passport Development

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) made significant advances in strengthening the global fight against doping in sport during the Agency’s Executive Committee and Foundation Board meetings held this weekend in Montreal, Canada. Interpol and Investigation Strategy WADA announced that it had approved a Memorandum of Understanding formalizing its cooperation with Interpol, the world’s largest police organization. This Memorandum of Understanding, approved by Interpol at its October 2008 General Assembly, provides a framework for cooperation between the two organizations in tackling doping, in particular in the areas of evidence gathering and information sharing. At the Foundation Board meeting today, representatives of the French government officialised their government’s offer to second an officer to be based at Interpol Headquarters in Lyon, France, to serve as the liaison between WADA and its stakeholders, and the various Interpol bureaus around the world. WADA hopes that as soon as this officer starts work in this function, concrete advances in the fight against doping in this particular area will rapidly be achieved. “WADA is very grateful to the French Government for its contribution by way of seconding one of its officers to Interpol for this purpose,” said WADA’s President, The Hon. John Fahey. “As demonstrated by recent high profile doping cases and investigations, government action and the sharing of information between law enforcement agencies and anti-doping organizations can be crucial in exposing anti-doping rule violations that would not have been detected through testing. Law enforcement and government agencies possess investigative powers to attack source and supply of illegal substances which sport does not have. We need to ensure that cooperation between these two groups continues to strengthen in order to advance the fight against doping.” In addition to its daily activities in this area with its two groups of stakeholders (governments and sport), WADA is currently finalizing protocols to facilitate evidence gathering and information sharing between them. WADA is also working with UNESCO and individual governments to persuade governments to have laws in place that allow combating manufacturing, supply and possession of doping substances on their territories. The World Anti-Doping Code (Code)—the document harmonizing anti-doping rules in all sports and countries—provides for the sanctioning of “non-analytical” anti-doping rule violations. This means that a sanction can be imposed in cases where there is no positive doping control test but where there is other evidence that an anti-doping rule violation occurred. Athlete Passport The weekend’s meetings also focused on advances made by WADA in the development of the Athlete Passport concept. The fundamental principle of the Athlete Passport is based on the monitoring of an athlete’s biological parameters to detect abnormal variations that indirectly reveal the effects of doping, as opposed to the traditional direct detection of doping. As the international independent organization responsible for coordinating and monitoring the fight against doping in sport, WADA’s role and mandate in this area is to provide harmonized practices that anti-doping organizations conducting longitudinal analyses for anti-doping purposes will have to follow in order to comply with the Code and the related International Standards. In order to address disparate approaches to biological monitoring currently employed by various anti-doping organizations, WADA is cooperating with international experts and key stakeholders to finalize the development of these harmonized practices, which include, for example, protocols for collection, transportation, storage and analysis of samples, and for results management. WADA is developing an “Athlete Passport Operating Manual.” This manual will provide an overview of the scientific principles behind the blood module of the Athlete Passport and will provide practical advice on the implementation of such a program. A number of technical documents are being drafted to supplement the manual and will outline, in detail, requirements aimed at ensuring legal and scientific consistency, as well as harmonizing the application of the Passport. It is expected that this work will be completed in early 2009, and that the development of an endocrine module for the Athlete Passport will follow. “WADA is constantly looking at innovative strategies to fight against doping in sport,” said WADA’s Director General, David Howman. “We initiated this project in 2002 and we have since devoted significant attention to the program. We are encouraged by the development of the Athlete Passport and we are looking forward to its implementation by anti-doping organizations on a broader scale in the coming months and years.” For more information on the Athlete Passport concept, click here. Code Compliance The Executive Committee and the Foundation Board discussed the first official WADA “Code Compliance Report.” The Code assigns WADA the responsibility of monitoring and reporting on the implementation and enforcement of the Code by its signatories. The objective of this monitoring and reporting is to ensure efficiency of the harmonized fight against doping in sport and fairness to athletes so that they benefit from strong and fair anti-doping policies and protection that are the same for all, no matter the sport, nationality or country where tested. Following a two-year process, Board Members reviewed the first official Compliance Report (covering International Sports Federations and National Anti-Doping Organizations) submitted to them by WADA’s management. The Board noted, with satisfaction, that most of these organizations have now enforced the current Code (2003 Code). “The considerable resources and efforts that WADA has devoted during the past years to help anti-doping organizations operate in line with the Code have borne fruit,” said WADA’s President. “Unfortunately, despite WADA’s awareness and information campaigns, regular contacts and all the assistance offered, a small number of organizations still haven’t gotten their acts together since the Code entered into force in January 2004. We expect that with our continued assistance, these organizations will take the necessary measures in the coming months.” Following a motion filed by Members of the Foundation Board and a subsequent vote, Members decided however to postpone any declaration of non-compliance until the next Board meeting in May 2009. The Board directed WADA’s management to submit on that occasion, a report on signatories’ compliance with the revised Code, as opposed to the 2003 Code. Revised Code Implementation The revised Code, which was unanimously adopted by WADA’s Foundation Board and endorsed by WADA’s stakeholders in November 2007, will go into force on January 1, 2009. Although the key principles and elements of the 2003 Code will remain in place, several important changes are reflected in the 2009 Code. Two general themes, namely firmness and fairness, have emerged from these changes, both targeted at strengthening the fight against doping in sport. Among the most significant changes, revisions to the Code introduce a greater flexibility in the application of sanctions in general. They provide for an increase of sanctions in doping cases involving certain “aggravating circumstances” such as being part of a larger doping scheme or the athlete having used multiple substances. At the same time, lessened sanctions may be imposed where athletes can clearly prove that the substance involved was not intended to enhance performance. On Saturday and Sunday, WADA’s Executive Committee and Foundation Board confirmed the Executive Committee September 2008 decision to have the new International Standard for the Protection of Privacy and Personal Information go into force on January 1, 2009. The majority of Members considered that it was in the interest of athletes worldwide to have such a protection in place, in particular in countries of the world where there currently exists no data protection legislation. For detailed information on the revised Code and International Standards, click here. UNESCO Convention Members were updated on the ratification by individual countries of the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport. UNESCO and WADA celebrated the hundredth ratification on November 12 at a ceremony at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris. Switzerland, Uganda and Burkina Faso were the latest three countries to ratify the Convention, bringing the total number of ratifications to 103. (Click here for the list of countries that have ratified.) WADA’s President urged governments that have not ratified the Convention to do so as soon as possible, in order to further harmonize the rules governing anti-doping in sport. “The hundredth ratification milestone showed that public authorities are well aware of the impact of doping on public health and recognize the need to further coordinate efforts with the sport movement to advance the fight against doping,” said Mr. Fahey. “With 103 ratifications achieved, WADA looks forward to the ratification by the remaining 90 Member States of UNESCO.” Compliance with the Convention will be monitored by UNESCO. Operation Puerto WADA’s Executive Committee strongly supported WADA’s management action with regard to Operation Puerto—the investigation into doping launched by the Spanish police in 2006. In September this year, the judge in charge of the case closed for the second time the criminal proceedings without charging any of the individuals involved in the investigation. WADA and other parties to the case appealed this decision. WADA continues to stress the importance that the evidence gathered by law enforcement during the investigation be preserved for sharing with sport and anti-doping authorities. While some of this evidence might not be used in court as part of criminal proceedings under the Spanish law, it can be crucial in the sanctioning processes of individual athletes who may have committed doping offences. Budget The Foundation Board approved US$27.3 million for the Agency’s 2009 budget, representing a minor increase of four percent over the 2008 budget. This increase is the result of a number of new activities, and in particular WADA’s added responsibilities under the Code, such as Code monitoring, appeals to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and stakeholder information and education campaigns in relation to the implementation of the revised Code. With regard to funding, the Agency has now received more than 98 percent of its 2008 budget. WADA’s funding is provided equally by governments of the world and by the sports movement. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), on behalf of the Olympic Movement, matches dollar for dollar contributions made by governments. Social Science Research The Executive Committee approved a number of social science research projects for funding. WADA’s Social Science Research Program, launched in 2005, aims to support the design of preventive anti-doping education programs using an evidence-based approach. “It is essential that WADA’s anti-doping programs and initiatives be based on scientific knowledge and evidence,” said WADA’s Director General. “Understanding the behavioural aspects and value judgements behind doping will help us to develop and disseminate strong values-based anti-doping education programs.” WADA received 21 applications for the Social Science Research Program this year and will commit US$153,000 to the selected projects. The Executive Committee approved an additional US$43,000 for targeted research in 2009.

WADA Executive Committee and Board to Discuss Code Compliance, Athlete Passport, Current Anti-Doping Issues

WADA’s Executive Committee and Foundation Board will meet respectively on Saturday, November 22, and Sunday, November 23, 2008, in Montreal for the last time this year. During these meetings, members representing governments of the world and the Olympic Movement will discuss the first official “Code Compliance Report.” The World Anti-Doping Code—the document harmonizing regulations regarding anti-doping in all sport and all countries—assigns WADA the responsibility of monitoring and reporting on the implementation and enforcement of the Code by its signatories. The objective of this monitoring and reporting is to ensure efficiency of the harmonized fight against doping in sport and fairness to the athletes so that they benefit from strong and fair anti-doping policies and protection that are the same for all, no matter the sport, nationality or country where tested. Following a two-year review process, the Board will discuss the compliance report and determine which anti-doping organizations are not compliant. As required under the Code, the list of non-compliant organizations will be posted on WADA’s Web site on November 25. (Click here for more information on compliance and the Code Compliance Report.) WADA's Board and Executive Committee will also review advances made by the Agency in the development of the Athlete Passport concept. The fundamental principle of the Athlete Passport is based on the monitoring of an athlete’s biological parameters to detect abnormal variations that indirectly reveal the effects of doping, as opposed to the traditional direct detection of doping. As the international independent organization responsible for coordinating and monitoring the global fight against doping in sport, WADA’s role and mandate is to provide harmonized practices that anti-doping organizations conducting longitudinal analyses for anti-doping purposes will have to follow to comply with the Code and the related International Standards. WADA is currently finalizing the development of these harmonized practices, which include, for example, protocols for collection, transportation, storage and analysis of samples, and for results management. (Click here for more information on the Athlete Passport.) In addition, the Foundation Board will consider WADA’s 2009 budget for approval, and the Executive Committee will consider social science research projects for approval as part of the Agency’s 2009 Social Science Research Grant Program. This program aims to support the design of preventive anti-doping education programs using an evidence-based approach. Among other topics to be addressed at the meetings are updates on the implementation of the revised Code and International Standard, which will go into effect on January 1, 2009; the launch of WADA’s latest education initiative, the Play True Generation Program, at the Commonwealth Youth Games in October; the latest advances made in relation to WADA’s investigations strategy and WADA’s cooperation with Interpol; ratifications of the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport by individual countries; progress of anti-doping organizations in their implementation of the Anti-Doping Administration and Management System (ADAMS); and current issues in relation to recent doping cases and investigations. Members will also be updated on the Agency's activities in all areas, including athlete education, anti-doping development, science, the Independent Observer Program, as well as regional offices’ activities.

Q&A on Revised International Standard for Testing

To answer recent questions about the revised International Standard for Testing (IST), which will go into force on January 1, 2009, WADA has re-posted the Q&A the Agency developed following the approval of the revised IST by WADA’s Executive Committee in May 2008. Click here for the Q&A.

Beijing Paralympic Games Independent Observer Report Now Published

The WADA Independent Observer (IO) report from the 2008 Summer Paralympic Games is now available. Click here for the report. Click here for more information about WADA’s IO Program.

Hundred Countries Ratify Anti-Doping Convention

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and UNESCO celebrated the signing of the 100th Government to the International Convention against Doping in Sport in Paris, France, today. UNESCO’s Director General, Koïchiro Matsuura, and WADA’s Director General, David Howman, joined Ambassadors from most of the 100 countries that have ratified the Convention to mark the historical milestone. Paraguay became the 100th signatory of the Convention, which was adopted on October 19, 2005, and entered into force on February 1, 2007. This is UNESCO’s most successful convention in terms of speed of development and implementation. In just three years, more than half of UNESCO’s Member States from all regions of the world committed to fighting doping in sport. “Never before have global anti-doping efforts been stronger or more focused on providing an honest and equitable playing environment for athletes,” said Mr. Matsuura. The Convention is designed to ensure a consistent approach to anti-doping efforts and compel governments into action, such as restricting the supply of performance enhancing substances and methods, curtailing trafficking and regulating dietary and nutritional supplements. “Recent high profile doping cases and investigations have shown how decisive Government action can be,” observed Mr. Howman. “The Convention allows Governments to align their domestic policies with the World Anti-Doping Code, thus harmonizing the rules governing anti-doping in sport and public legislation. WADA is very grateful to UNESCO for its leading role in this process.” The 29th Olympiad in Beijing was the first to be held since the Convention entered into force. During this event, the largest ever testing program was conducted, involving more than 4,770 doping controls. “The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is committed to doing all it can to eliminate doping from sport,” said the IOC’s President, Jacques Rogge, in a written statement. “This fight is a number one priority. However, for us to be truly effective with our efforts, close cooperation between sports organizations and Governments is crucial.” UNESCO continues to raise public awareness by working with Governments on anti-doping education, policy and prevention programs. Jamaica, Mozambique, Mali and Uruguay were the first recipients of financial assistance through UNESCO’s Fund for the Elimination of Doping in Sport. “While the Convention provides the roadmap, the Fund provides the means to achieve its principal objective—to promote the fight against doping so that future generations can enjoy and excel in doping-free sport,” said Mr. Matsuura. “This milestone shows that Public Authorities are well aware of the impact of doping on public health and recognize the need to further coordinate efforts with the sports movement to advance the fight against doping,” said WADA’s President, The Hon. John Fahey, in a written statement. “WADA now looks forward to the ratification of the Convention by the remaining 93 Member States of UNESCO.

New Play True Magazine Outlines Key Changes to Stronger World Anti-Doping Code and International Standards

A new issue of the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) flagship magazine, Play True, is now available. This issue, entitled “Levelling the Playing Field,” highlights key amendments to the World Anti-Doping Code—the document harmonizing anti-doping regulations in all sports and all countries—and its related International Standards. These revised documents, which will go into effect on January 1, 2009, will help further strengthen anti-doping programs worldwide, including by providing for an increase of sanctions in doping cases involving aggravating circumstances in all sports. Play True also provides an in-depth review of discussions and achievements from the Third WADA Gene Doping Symposium, held in Saint Petersburg, Russia, and shares interviews with experts from the field. Among other features of this issue are a look at WADA’s activities at the Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games; an interview with the new President of the International Olympic Committee Athlete Commission, former sprinter Frank Fredericks; and updates on WADA’s activities and programs. Click here to download a copy of Play True.

Addendum to the 2008 Olympic Games Independent Observer Report Now Published

The Beijing 2008 Olympic Games WADA Independent Observers (IOs) have published an addendum to their Report. This addendum provides an update to the item raised in the main text of the Report that approximately 300 test results were not received by the IO team in Beijing. Click here for the addendum. Click here for the IO Report.

Updated Q&A on WADA Athlete Passport Program

WADA has updated its online information on the Athlete Passport to reflect advances made by the Agency and current activities in relation to this concept, based on the monitoring of an athlete’s biological parameters to detect abnormal variations. Click here for the updated Q&A.

Revised International Standard for Laboratories Now Available

WADA has now published the revised International Standard for Laboratories (version 6.0). This Standard, which includes a number of technical amendments in order to harmonize its provisions with the revised World Anti-Doping Code and the 2009 Prohibited List, was approved by the Agency’s Executive Committee at its September 20 meeting. It will go into effect on January 1, 2009. Click here for the Standard.

New Q&A on the Status of Finasteride

Following several queries about the status of finasteride in relation to the 2009 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods, WADA has published a Q&A clarifiying a number of key elements. Click here for the Q&A. Click here for the 2009 List and explanatory documents.

WADA Launches Play True Generation Program at the Commonwealth Youth Games

WADA is launching its latest education initiative, The Play True Generation Program, at the Third Commonwealth Youth Games, a major event for athletes under 18 years old, held October 12-18 in Pune, India. The Play True Generation Program aims at encouraging young athletes, their coaches and support personnel to be leaders in promoting and ensuring clean sport worldwide. “The Play True Generation is a generation of athletes, coaches and support personnel who believe that clean sport is one of the fairest and most powerful tools for positive change and growth,” said WADA’s President, the Hon. John Fahey. “It embraces peace, fair play and respect. By launching this initiative, we want to encourage tomorrow’s champions to be the catalysts for a strong movement against doping and to embrace the values of clean sport.” During the Commonwealth Youth Games, athletes and officials visiting the Play True Generation Center in the Athlete Village have the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to the ideals of the Program by completing an anti-doping pledge card that is then displayed on the walls of the Center. Participants can also complete a survey sharing their attitudes and beliefs about doping, and test their knowledge about anti-doping by taking the youth edition of WADA’s Anti-Doping Quiz. In addition, young athletes have the opportunity to play the “Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games” video game provided by WADA’s partner, digital media and content provider ISM. “ISM knows how to make learning captivating and fun. We have an important mandate and by working with a company like ISM we are confident that today’s and tomorrow’s leaders will want to join the Play True Generation,” said WADA’s Director General David Howman. “ISM looks forward to working with WADA at the Commonwealth Youth Games and is excited about future partnerships leading up to the 2010 Youth Olympic Games,” added ISM’s CEO and President, Raymond Goldsmith. In addition to WADA personnel, the Play True Generation Center in Pune is staffed by the administrators of the four Regional Anti-Doping Organizations (RADOs) whose offices are funded by the Commonwealth Secretariat and based in Commonwealth countries. The Commonwealth Secretariat’s support to the anti-doping activities in these four regions (East Africa, Southern Africa, the Caribbean and Oceania) is primarily focused on the education and information side of the fight against doping in sport. Following the Games, the goal of each of the RADO administrators will be to promote and deliver sustainable programs for youth in their respective regions. “The Commonwealth Youth Games are a great opportunity for WADA and the anti-doping community to educate and reach out to young athletes,” said David Howman. “WADA is grateful to the Commonwealth Secretariat, the Commonwealth Games Federation and the Local Organizing Committee for the strong support for the Agency’s activities and to doping-free sport in general. The lessons learned during this first Play True Generation event will be a springboard for preparations for the Program’s future activities, including at the First Youth Olympic Games to be held in Singapore in 2010.” “The Commonwealth Games Federations (CGF) is delighted to be working with WADA in the promotion of drug-free sport,” said the CGF Chief Executive Officer Michael Hooper. “This partnership in Pune for the Third Commonwealth Youth Games provides an excellent opportunity to create greater awareness and understanding amongst young athletes. Education is a fundamental weapon in the fight against doping, and the implementation of such initiatives by WADA is most welcome. These athletes are future ambassadors and role models. It is essential that they understand and endorse the fight against doping and cheating.”

Beijing Olympic Games Independent Observer Report Now Published

The WADA Independent Observer (IO) report from the 2008 Summer Olympic Games is now available. Click here for the report. Click here for more information about WADA’s IO Program.

WADA Statement on Retesting of Beijing Olympic Games Samples

WADA is pleased with the approach adopted by the International Olympic Committee in relation to the samples of the Beijing Olympic Games. Retesting of samples as science advances is a powerful weapon in the fight against doping in sport, as shown by recent cases at the Tour de France. The World Anti-Doping Code makes it possible to open a disciplinary proceeding within eight years from the date an anti-doping rule violation occurred. “We suggest that athletes who may be tempted to cheat keep this reality in mind and we believe that retrospective testing will serve as a strong deterrent,” said WADA’s President, the Hon. John Fahey.

Revised International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemption Now Online

WADA has now published the revised International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemption. This Standard, which includes a number of technical amendments in order to harmonize its provisions with the revised World Anti-Doping Code and the 2009 Prohibited List, was approved by the Agency’s Executive Committee at its September 20 meeting. It will go into effect on January 1, 2009. Click here for the Standard.

WADA Official Statement on Inaccuracies of Vrijman Report

Following a number of requests, WADA has re-posted online its response to the so-called "Vrijman report," submitted in 2006 to the International Cycling Union (UCI) in relation to the August 2005 L’Équipe article that focused on a number of samples collected during the 1999 Tour de France. WADA’s detailed response, initially published on June 19, 2006, highlights a number of the unprofessional, inaccurate, unfair and misleading elements of the report. Click here for WADA’s statement.

International Standard for the Protection of Privacy Now Online

WADA has now published the International Standard for the Protection of Privacy and Personal Information (ISPPPI), which was approved by the Agency’s Executive Committee at its September 20 meeting. The purpose of the ISPPPI is to ensure that all relevant parties involved in anti-doping in sport adhere to a set of minimum privacy protections when collecting and using athlete personal information, such as information relating to whereabouts, doping controls and therapeutic use exemptions. WADA led an extensive consultation process beginning in late 2007 involving key stakeholders, legal experts, international organizations, governments and privacy regulators from several countries, and circulated two draft versions of the ISPPPI for comment. The ISPPI will go into effect on January 1, 2009. Click here for the Standard.

WADA 2009 Prohibited List Now Published

Following its approval by WADA’s Executive Committee on September 20, the 2009 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods is now available. This List will go into effect on January 1, 2009. To see the 2009 List, the 2009 Monitoring Program, a summary of modifications, and a Q&A, click here.

WADA Executive Committee Approves 2009 Prohibited List, New Delhi Laboratory Accreditation, International Standard for the Protection of Privacy

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) announced today that its Executive Committee approved the List of Prohibited Substances and Methods for 2009. This new List will be published online by October 1, 2008, and will go into effect on January 1, 2009. “Today’s Executive Committee meeting was the first held following the Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games, and the discussion indicated very clearly that all parties involved in the fight against doping are committed to further strengthening and coordinating their anti-doping activities under the World Anti-Doping Code,” said WADA’s President, The Hon. John Fahey. “The fight against doping is a 24-7-365 responsibility. I am pleased that despite significant progress in the fight against doping in the past few years and months, stakeholders recognize the need to take further measures to protect the health of athletes and the integrity of sport worldwide.” Prohibited List The Prohibited List is one of the cornerstones of the harmonized fight against doping in sport. It specifies substances and methods prohibited in sport. The 2009 List offers a number of changes compared to the 2008 List, including modifications in relation to specified substances in order to align the 2009 List with the more flexible sanctions set forth in the revised World Anti-Doping Code (2009 Code) to come into effect on January 1, 2009. The objective of this flexibility, which was approved by WADA’s stakeholders as part of their unanimous endorsement of the revised Code last year, is to allow for enhanced sanctions for deliberate doping offenders, and reduced sanctions for inadvertent cheaters or for athletes who can unequivocally establish that the substance involved was not intended to enhance performance. As a result, while all prohibited methods, the classes of anabolic agents and hormones, as well as stimulants and hormone antagonists and modulators so identified on the 2009 Prohibited List maintain their status, the remainder of prohibited substances will now be considered as specified substances for the purpose of more flexible sanctions. This means that where athletes can clearly establish how a specified substance entered their body or came into their possession, and that such substance was not intended to enhance sport performance, the sanction may be reduced as low as a reprimand and no period of ineligibility. At the same time, the use of non-specified substances should be more likely to result in a standard two-year ban for a first anti-doping rule violation, or to a ban of up to four years in cases of aggravating circumstances under the revised Code. These circumstances can include, but are not limited to, being part of a large doping scheme, an athlete having used multiple prohibited substances or a prohibited substance on multiple occasions, or an athlete engaging in deceptive or obstructing conduct to avoid the detection or adjudication of an anti-doping rule violation. Aggravating circumstances also include situations in which a normal individual would be likely to benefit from the performance-enhancing effects of the anti-doping rule violation beyond the otherwise applicable period of ineligibility. “Specified substances, as defined in the revised Code, are not necessarily less serious agents for purposes of doping than other prohibited substances,” said WADA’s President. “For that reason, an athlete who does not meet the reduction criteria could receive up to a four-year period of ineligibility in case of aggravating circumstances. However, there is a greater likelihood that specified substances, as opposed to non-specified substances, could be susceptible to a credible, non-doping explanation.” Major Changes for 2009 In order to determine which stimulants (prohibited in-competition only) should be classified as specified or non-specified in the 2009 List, the international experts serving on WADA’s scientific committees carefully considered various parameters, including the potential of these stimulants to enhance performance in sport, their risk to health, their general use in medicinal products, their legitimate market availability, their illicit use, their legal/controlled status in various countries, their history and potential of abuse in sport, their potential of addiction, the likelihood of approval for therapeutic use, their pharmacology, and other scientific elements, as well as the likelihood of a non-doping explanation. As a result of this process and of the broad consultation traditionally carried out as part of the annual preparation of the List, stimulants identified as non-specified substances in the 2009 List (and therefore subject to a two-year sanction in the absence of aggravating or attenuating circumstances) include for example amphetamine, cocaine, bromantan and modafinil. Other noteworthy amendments to the List include the removal from the 2009 List of alpha reductase inhibitors, a class of masking agents which used to be banned in- and out-of-competition. These substances have been rendered ineffective as masking agents of steroids through close consideration of steroid profiles by anti-doping laboratories. As part of the development by WADA of the Athlete Passport concept—the objective of which is to monitor an athlete’s biological parameters over time in order to detect abnormal variations that could indicate potential doping—and following research and advances in anti-doping science, WADA accredited laboratories are now able to and required to systematically and closely consider steroid profiles in urine as part of the doping control process, which allows them to circumvent the masking agent properties of alpha reductase inhibitors. “Refining the List is an important responsibility in WADA’s work and one of the key tools in the harmonization of the global fight against doping in sport,” said Mr Fahey. “It is an elaborate process involving the solicitation of input from all of our stakeholders so that changes are founded on expanding scientific knowledge and understanding of doping practices and trends. The 2009 List reflects this expanding knowledge, as well as advances in anti-doping science and the recognition by WADA stakeholders of the importance of further harmonization of the fight against doping through the revised Code and International Standards.” WADA assumed full responsibility for the List following implementation of the Code and the associated International Standards in 2004. The List is developed every year through a highly consultative consultation process, beginning with the circulation of a draft List among more than 1,700 stakeholders for comment. The comments received are processed by WADA’s List Committee, who then presents its conclusions to WADA’s Health, Medical and Research Committee, who in turn submits its final recommendations to the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee, WADA’s ultimate policy-making body, reviews and determines the List for the following year at its annual September meeting. Scientific Research As is traditionally the case at its September meeting, WADA’s Executive Committee also approved scientific research projects for funding. “Together with education and investigations, detection through scientific developments and intelligent testing is one of the most important weapons in the fight against doping in sport,” noted Mr Fahey. “Recent developments in this area, such as the implementation of detection means for CERA at this year’s Tour de France, have shown that by anticipating doping trends and by closely cooperating with researchers and pharmaceutical companies, WADA and the anti-doping community are making significant leaps in the science of detection.” WADA’s scientific research grant program, one of the Agency’s chief priorities, is dedicated to developing new and improved means for detecting performance-enhancing substances and methods. WADA will commit US$6.5 million—approximately a quarter of its total budget—to scientific research as part of its 2008 research grant program. This will bring the total amount of grants provided by the Agency to scientific research since 2001 to approximately US$44 million. A record number of proposals (75) were received this year from 24 countries, and 30 were selected for funding by the Executive Committee. These projects will help advance anti-doping research in such areas as the detection of blood manipulations, the development of techniques to detect gene manipulation, the development of new global technologies of detection, and the implementation of further means for detecting a number of substances including human growth hormone and various forms of erythropoietin. New Delhi Laboratory Accreditation The Executive Committee approved the accreditation of a new laboratory in New Delhi, India. The National Dope Testing Laboratory has successfully completed the requirements of the WADA accreditation process monitored by the Agency’s Laboratory Working Committee. The New Delhi laboratory thus becomes the 34th WADA accredited laboratory in the world. (Click here for the list of WADA accredited laboratories.) International Standards In addition, the Executive Committee approved a new International Standard and two revised International Standards. The purpose of the International Standards is to harmonize technical aspects in the fight against doping in sport. Current International Standards include the Prohibited List, the International Standard for Laboratories, the International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemption, and the International Standard for Testing. These are mandatory for Code signatories. Members approved revised versions of the International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemption and the International Standard for Laboratories, which include a number of technical amendments in order to harmonize their provisions with the revised Code and the 2009 List. These two revised Standards will go into effect on January 1, 2009 The Executive Committee also approved the new International Standard for the Protection of Privacy and Personal Information, which will also go into effect on January 1, 2009. However, the Executive Committee asked WADA’s management to continue its discussions with European governments to see whether any further improvements might be made. This Standard will ensure that all relevant parties involved in anti-doping in sport apply a minimum suitable privacy protection in relation to the collection and use of athletes’ personal data—as it relates to whereabouts, doping controls and therapeutic use exemptions. WADA led an extensive consultation process among stakeholders, legal experts, international organizations, and the commissions on privacy protection from several countries, and released two draft versions for feedback in order to develop the final version approved today by the Executive Committee. The last International Standard— the revised International Standard for Testing—was approved by the Executive Committee at its May 2008 meeting and will go into effect on January 1, 2009, at the same time as the revised Code and the other new or revised International Standards. “The implementation of the revised World Anti-Doping Code and International Standards will further strengthen global anti-doping rules for the benefit of the clean athletes” said WADA’s Director General David Howman. “Thanks to the experience accumulated by the anti-doping community since these rules first came into effect in 2004, and thanks to the very broad consultation process we went through, soliciting input from all stakeholders and interested parties, these revisions will help further solidify technical aspects of anti-doping programs while rigorously protecting athletes’ rights. We are looking forward to their implementation by stakeholders by January 1, 2009. ” The next meeting of WADA’s Executive Committee will be held on November 22, 2008, in Montreal. WADA’s Foundation Board, the Agency’s supreme decision-making body, will meet the following day.

WADA Executive Committee to Discuss 2009 Prohibited List, New International Standard for the Protection of Privacy

The World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) Executive Committee will meet for the second time this year on September 20, 2008, at the Agency’s headquarters in Montreal, Canada. As is traditionally the case for its September meeting, the Executive Committee will consider the List of Prohibited Substances and Methods (List) for approval for the following year. The Prohibited List is revised annually through a highly consultative process, beginning with the circulation of a draft List among more than 1,700 stakeholders. The comments received are processed by WADA’s List Working Committee, who then presents its conclusions to WADA’s Health, Medical and Research Committee. The latter in turn submits its final recommendations to the Executive Committee, who discusses the recommendations and makes a final decision at its September meeting. The 2009 List will be published by October 1, 2008, and will come into force on January 1, 2009. Executive Committee members will also approve scientific research projects for funding, which is also done annually at the September meeting. WADA’s scientific research grant program, one of the Agency’s chief piorities, is dedicated to developing new and improved means for detecting performance-enhancing substances and methods. Since 2001, WADA has committed more than US$37 million to advancing the science of anti-doping. In addition, WADA’s Executive Committee will consider for approval the International Standard for the Protection of Privacy and Personal Information. The purpose of this new International Standard is to ensure that all relevant parties involved in anti-doping in sport apply a minimum suitable privacy protection in relation to the collection and use of athletes’ personal data—as it relates to whereabouts, doping controls and therapeutic use exemptions. WADA led an extensive consultation process among stakeholders, legal experts, international organizations (such as the Council of Europe) and the commissions on privacy protection from several countries. Two draft versions of the Standard were released over the course of the past year in order to develop the final version presented to the Executive Committee. Other topics to be addressed at the meeting include WADA's draft 2009 budget; updates on the preparation of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) compliance report to be released in November; the implementation of the revised Code and International Standards by January 1, 2009; and current issues in relation to the fight against doping in sport.

WADA President Satisfied with Anti-Doping Progress, Urges Continued Momentum beyond Beijing Olympic Games

On the eve of the closing of the Beijing Olympic Games, the President of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the Hon. John Fahey, expressed his satisfaction at the Agency’s leadership and guidance in the global progress of the fight against doping in sport. “While I will not comment on details of the Beijing anti-doping program conducted by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) prior to the release of WADA’s Independent Observer report in the coming weeks, the spate of doping cases and investigations in the lead-up to the Games and the commitment of the IOC to protect the integrity of its event are just some indications that the worldwide fight against doping in sport has made a significant leap forward during the past few years under WADA’s stewardship,” Mr Fahey said. “Since WADA introduced the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) just four years ago, harmonization has considerably strengthened anti-doping activities. More sports have developed no notice out-of-competition testing programs, as required under the Code. Governments have become more involved on many different levels, including supporting robust national testing programs. Testing tactics themselves have gotten smarter, more targeted and more coordinated. With the support of government agencies, other evidence has been gathered to ensure that cheats who escaped detection from the analysis process are now brought to justice.” Mr Fahey warned however that the fight against doping goes far beyond the Olympic Games. “The fight against doping is a 24-7-365 responsibility. I commend sport and governments for the work to date but urge all to follow through on their commitment to further strengthen and coordinate their anti-doping activities under the Code for the benefit of clean athletes worldwide. As the independent international organization responsible for coordinating and monitoring the global fight against doping in sport, WADA will continue to work tirelessly with all of its stakeholders to protect the health of the athletes and the integrity of sport worldwide.”

Beijing: Athletes Abuzz over the WADA Hat

At WADA's Outreach center, located In the Athlete Village in Beijing, Olympic athletes are playing a computer game that teaches about the dangers and consequences of doping. For their efforts, athletes are rewarded with the WADA Beijing hat, all the rage at these Olympic Games.

WADA President in Beijing, Notes Progress Since Athens

WADA President John Fahey in his opening remarks to the media gathered in Beijing for the Summer Olympic Games, lauds the progress in anti-doping since the 2004 Athens Games when all sports federations accepted the World Anti-Doping Code. From Athens to Beijing The Hon. John Fahey, A.C. President, World Anti-Doping Agency Introductory Remarks WADA Press Conference August 7, 2008 Beijing, China From Athens to Beijing It was just four years ago, on the eve of the Athens Games, that all Olympic sports federations had adopted the World Anti-Doping Code. At that moment in time, the World Anti-Doping Code was agreed to and adopted, but it still remained to be seen how it would be implemented, and what the ultimate outcome would be for sport. We can now look back over the past four years with a certain degree of satisfaction. The spate of doping cases and investigations in the lead-up to the Beijing Games are just one indication that the worldwide fight against doping in sport has made a giant leap forward. It is also an indication that the World Anti-Doping Code is a fair and effective means for rooting out doping. As a result of the Code, for which the World Anti-Doping Agency is the mandated custodian and monitor, progress in several key areas has been made: More sports have started doing out-of-competition testing, as required under the Code; Governments have become more and more involved on many different levels, including supporting robust national testing programs; In fact, many of these recent positive cases are the result of nations stepping up their testing efforts to ensure that the athletes they send to Beijing are clean; Testing tactics themselves have gotten smarter, more targeted with experience; Yes, increasing the numbers of tests means that more athletes can be tested, but the real progress lies in using intelligence in targeting those tests; We continue to close the gap on rogue science: it is a constant race, but by partnering with the pharmaceutical industry we are now able to detect some drugs even prior to their coming to market; WADA’s introduction of the strategy involving investigations and cooperation with law enforcement has helped to put the squeeze on the manufacture and trafficking of illegal doping substances; And there has been a great deal of education of athletes and officials about their responsibilities Under the Code, so that now there really is no excuse for doping. These are all important factors contributing to the progress in the fight against doping in sport. WADA’s Role at the Beijing Games China As relates directly to the Beijing Games and the role that WADA plays, you may be aware that WADA has worked closely with the Chinese government and the Chinese Anti-Doping Agency over the past several years to ensure that they are fully aware of what is needed to implement an effective anti-doping programme, both domestically and for the 2008 Olympic Games. WADA’s leadership has made several official visits to Beijing in recent years and we have been pleased to see the rapid progress in the creation of an independent anti-doping programme and the building of a state-of-the-art laboratory. Testing As regards Testing for the Beijing Games, let it first be clear that WADA is not a testing agency. We are the independent international agency responsible for monitoring and coordinating the global fight against doping in sport. Therefore, generally speaking, testing is the responsibility of the national anti-doping organizations, the sports federations, and the major games organisers. As such, the in-competition testing here in Beijing is the responsibility of the International Olympic Committee. WADA does however play an important role in helping the IOC and the Beijing Organizing Committee when it comes to testing in the lead-up to the Games and testing of Olympic athletes away from Olympic venues, for example for those athletes who arrive late, leave early, or do not stay at official Olympic sites. This very collaborative strategy among the three organizations helps to ensure testing is targeted and most likely to catch cheats prior to their competing. Monitoring As for Monitoring, this is a very significant role that WADA plays during the Olympic Games. We do this through our Independent Observers Programme. Beijing will be the 5th Olympic Games to which WADA has sent an Independent Observer team to monitor the doping control and results management. And let me take a moment here to recognize and thank the Chair of WADA’s Independent Observer Team, Ms Sarah Lewis. Ms Lewis will lead a team of 12 individuals recruited from around the world for their expertise in the different aspects of anti-doping. Their task will be to randomly monitor all phases of the anti-doping process in a neutral and unbiased manner. They will verify that appropriate procedures have been followed by the IOC and will submit their observations and recommendations in a final report following the Games. With a team of independent experts monitoring the anti-doping during the Games, athletes and the public can have greater confidence in the process and outcome of these activities. Education And last but certainly not least is Education. WADA will conduct an Athlete Outreach Programme in the Athlete’s Village to educate athletes and officials about the dangers and consequences of doping. This programme engages athletes in a fun and inter-active way by inviting them to play computer games that teach about clean sport and athlete responsibilities under the Code. I’d like to pause for a moment to express our gratitude to Lenovo for its sponsorship of our Athlete Outreach Programme. Lenovo has provided co-branded USB keys that contain educational materials about anti-doping for all athletes who visit the WADA Outreach center. Lenovo representative, Alice Li, who is Lenovo’s Vice President for Olympic Marketing, is here in the front row, and it gives me great pleasure to recognize Ms. Li and her company for their generous support. Of course, WADA will continue to play its other traditional roles during the Olympic Games, including exercising our Right of Appeal to the International Court of Arbitration for Sport should doping cases occur that are not in line with the World Anti-Doping Code. Conclusion The road from Athens to Beijing has been marked with many successes in the fight against doping, starting with the adoption of the World Anti-Doping Code. While it would be naïve to think that there will be no doping during the Games, we can be sure that with all of the progress of these past four years, the cheats stand a greater chance of being caught. And looking beyond Beijing, WADA will continue to press for further progress in rooting out doping and protecting the rights of clean athletes. Thank you.

WADA President Reiterates Call on Nations, Sports to Send Clean Athletes to Beijing

With the opening of the 2008 Olympic Games only a few days away, WADA's President John Fahey reiterates his call on countries and sports federations to send clean athletes to the Beijing Games, in a b-roll segment posted on WADA’s redesigned online media center. But due to significant efforts including a new world-class laboratory in Beijing, Fahey says he is confident athletes taking steroids or any other performance enhancing drug are more likely to be caught during the Beijing Games—more so than in any other Olympics. Click here for the interview titled “Will the Beijing Olympics Be Clean?”

WADA Committee Vacancies 2009

Through WADA’s policy of rotation, there are vacant positions on our Committees each year. WADA is now seeking nominations or reappointments for such positions in preparation for 2009. These are - Athlete Committee (4); Education Committee (4); Finance and Administration Committee (2); and Health, Medical and Research Committee (4). Current composition of the Committees can be found here. WADA invites its stakeholders to explore within their respective regions and organizations encouraging the submission of worthy candidates for consideration to these positions. Submissions should include an appropriate letter of endorsement as well as a curriculum vitae providing full information relating to the individual’s experience and expertise. All nominations should be forwarded to Ms Shannan Withers, Senior Manager, Executive Office (fax +1 514 904 8759 or email Shannan Withers) by Wednesday 17 September 2008.

The Americas Strengthen Support of WADA and the Fight Against Doping

During its most recent summit held in Montevideo (Uruguay), member countries of the American Council of Sports (CADE – Consejo Americano del Deporte) unanimously agreed to a new continental contribution formula that strengthens the financial commitment of the region to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the global fight against doping in sport. The agreement is a concrete example of the strong and increasing level of commitment on behalf regional governments to support the fight against doping and WADA activities, while concurrently allowing CADE to obtain funds for its operations. Through this agreement and thanks to CADE authorities and members, an outstanding issue such as the continental split of the annual contributions to the Agency has been solved and it constitutes an encouraging precedent of cooperation and joint work for the common objectives of healthy and doping-free sport. The new funding formula for CADE comes into effect in January 2009. WADA is an equal partnership between the Sport Movement and Governments of the world. As such, WADA receives its funding from Sport and Governments in a 50-50 split. Governments agree on their share of the government portion of WADA’s contributions on a regional basis. For more information, click here.

WADA Thanks French Government for Contribution to Athlete Passport

Following up on their declarations at the Conference on Doping in Cycling held in Paris in October 2007, French Sport Minister Roselyne Bachelot and Secretary of State for Sport Bernard Laporte announced that France had decided to grant US$200,000 to WADA as part of the ongoing development of the Athlete Passport concept. "WADA is very grateful for the extra and significant contribution the French government is making to this program," said WADA Director General David Howman. "The Athlete Passport, the objective of which is to detect abnormal variations of an athlete's biological parameters through longitudinal follow-up, is an important new strategy in the fight against doping, and WADA is working actively with a long-term goal of its application on a universal scale."

WADA Issues Call for Proposals for Professional Technological Infrastructure Management Services

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) issues a Request for Proposals (RFP) for professional technological infrastructure management services. The deadline for submissions is August 22, 2008. Click here for the RFP.

WADA Seeks Comment on Draft Revision of ISL

As part of WADA's ongoing efforts to enhance worldwide anti-doping activities under the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), each of the International Standards undergoes periodic revision for fine-tuning based on consultation with WADA's stakeholders. The International Standard for Laboratories (ISL) revision process continued in January-June 2008 after the release of the current version 5.0. This revision was initiated primarily to update and harmonize the ISL with the provisions of the revised Code which comes into force in January 2009. In addition, several technical documents underwent the revision process. Furthermore, an explanatory note was prepared by the WADA Laboratory Working Committee for reference by stakeholders. The deadline for comment is August 18, 2008. Click here for the documents.

Statement by WADA President John Fahey Following London High Court Decision on Dwain Chambers

"WADA understands and fully respects the London High Court's decision to dismiss Dwain Chambers's request for an injunction allowing him to be able to be selected for the Beijing Olympic Games. Although the decision of a National Olympic Committee not to select an athlete who committed an anti-doping rule violation for its Olympic Games' team is not an anti-doping matter, but rather a selection issue, this decision sends a strong message that athletes who commit serious doping violations will have to face significant consequences. The unanimous consensus found by WADA's stakeholders to strengthen sanctions for serious anti-doping rule violations under the revised World Anti-Doping Code to come into force in January 2009 is a further sign that there is, and that there will continue to be, no tolerance for cheaters in sport."

New WADA Corporate Video Outlines WADA's Mission, Global Responsibilities

In the lead-up to the Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games, during which WADA will provide comprehensive anti-doping monitoring and education resources, WADA has developed a new corporate video outlining the Agency's mission and looking at who is responsible in the global fight against doping in sport. This two-minute video is available in English and French. Click here for the video.

Statement by WADA President John Fahey Following Coach Trevor Graham's Ban

"The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is satisfied with the decision announced on July 15 by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) to impose a lifetime ban on track and field coach Trevor Graham. This decision is a strong reminder that those who may assist, encourage or force athletes to cheat will be pursued, and that evidence garnered from law enforcement investigations may be used by anti-doping authorities to sanction athletes, coaches and other individuals involved in sport with sporting sanctions under the World Anti-Doping Code."

Statistics Released: Analysis by Laboratories and Testing by Anti-Doping Organizations

Pursuant to its responsibilities under the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), WADA publishes annually two sets of statistics, the first set is reported by anti-doping organizations (ADO) on testing performed, and the second set is reported by the accredited anti-doping laboratories on analysis performed. As regards the Testing Statistics, section 14.4 of the Code states that “Anti-Doping Organizations shall, at least annually, publish publicly a general statistical report of their Doping Control activities with a copy provided to WADA.” Code Section 14.5 further states that “WADA shall act as the central clearing house for Doping Control Testing data” from anti-doping organizations and “shall, at least annually, publish statistical reports summarizing such information.” In accordance with these Code requirements, WADA has requested that all International Federations (IF) and National Anti-Doping Organizations (NADO) submit their testing data to WADA, and has published the data that has been received to date. The 2007 Laboratory Analysis Statistics include analyses conducted by the 33 WADA-accredited laboratories for in- and out-of-competition testing. More than 25,000 more samples were analyzed in 2007 than in 2006; and there was a 0.5% increase in Adverse Analytical Findings—from 1.96% (2006) to 1.97% (2007). It is important to note that the laboratories report Adverse Analytical Findings (AAF), i.e. the presence of prohibited substances or methods in samples. These are only analytical reports provided by the laboratories and are all subject to the results management process conducted by ADOs, which includes matching with Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs) and longitudinal studies. Therefore, the number of AAFs reported by laboratories may not correspond with the number of cases sanctioned (Anti-Doping Rule Violations, or ADRVs) by ADOs. Click here for the ADO Testing Statistics page. Click here for the Laboratory Analysis Statistics page.

WADA President Reflects on Threat of Doping to Public Health

Date: July 10, 2008 As a growing number of countries ratify the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport and pass more rigorous laws against trafficking doping substances and facilitating doping, WADA's President John Fahey stresses that doping is not limited to elite-level athletes and poses a serious threat to greater public health. In the third of a series of b-roll segments posted on WADA's redesigned online media center, Fahey reflects on the advances in the fight against doping in sport and on WADA's success in combating doping through monitoring and compliance with the World Anti-Doping Code. Click here for the interview titled “The World Anti-Doping Agency’s Charter: Monitor of the Code.”

WADA's Third Gene Doping Symposium Declaration and Presentations Now Online

Presentations and the Declaration of the Third WADA Gene Doping Symposium, held in Saint Petersburg, Russia, on June 10-11, are now available online. The Saint Petersburg Declaration on Gene Doping includes recommendations and conclusions of the meeting. Click here for the documents.

WADA President Stresses Need of Multi-Strategy Approach to Fight against Doping

The fight against doping in sport needs to be based on a comprehensive approach combining a variety of weapons to be efficient, says WADA’s President John Fahey in the second of a series of b-roll segments posted on WADA’s redesigned online media center. Following a number of high-profile doping cases in the past weeks, Fahey emphasizes three key strategies in the fight against doping: education, detection and investigation. Click here for the interview.

Statement by WADA President John Fahey Following CAS Ruling in Floyd Landis Case

“The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is satisfied with the decision announced today by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). As with any athlete whose sample analysis resulted in an adverse analytical finding, Mr Landis had every opportunity to present his case to hearing panels at different stages of the process. He did so and chose in addition to mount an aggressive campaign against the anti-doping movement, spreading an unprecedented amount of misinformation in the public domain to attempt to derail the attention from the core of the case. Today’s ruling further confirms that Mr Landis committed an anti-doping rule violation and that there is no escaping the fact that synthetic testosterone was found in his sample.” “This case is a further sad example of an athlete who cheated but persisted in denying. I hope that athletes who may be tempted to cheat will take this lesson to heart and that this case will serve as a strong deterrent. The anti-doping community will continue to work tirelessly to conduct its mission and protect the integrity of sport and the right of all athletes to compete in a fair and clean environment worldwide”

Statement by WADA President John Fahey Following CAS Ruling in Floyd Landis Case

"Beijing 2008" Section on WADA Web Site Details Anti-Doping Rules for Paralympic Games

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WADA President Calls on Nations, Sports to Send Clean Athletes to Beijing

It is the responsibility of countries and sports federations to send clean athletes to the Olympic Games, says WADA’s President John Fahey in the first of a series of b-roll segments posted on WADA’s redesigned online media center. But due to significant efforts including a new world-class laboratory in Beijing, Fahey says he is confident athletes taking steroids or any other performance enhancing drug are more likely to be caught during the Beijing Games—more so than in any other Olympics. Click here for the interview.

Model of Best Practice for International Federations, Based on Revised Code

WADA has developed Models of Best Practice for National Olympic Committees (NOC), International Federations (IF) and National Anti-Doping Organizations (NADO) in order to assist these organizations in drafting anti-doping rules in line with the World Anti-Doping Code (Code). Models of Best Practice for IFs based on the Revised Code are now available online. Models for NOCs and NADOs, based on the Revised Code, will be available soon. The Revised Code comes into force on January 1, 2009. Click here for the documents.

WADA 2007 Annual Report Now Available

WADA’s 2007 Annual Report is now available online. To read the Report, click here.

WADA Issues Call for Proposals for Web Development and Design

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) issues a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the redevelopment and redesign of the WADA Web site. The deadline for submissions is July 10, 2008. Click here for the RFP.

WADA Gene Doping Symposium Calls for Greater Awareness, Strengthened Action against Potential Gene Transfer Misuse in Sport

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Second Round of Consultation (and final round)—WADA Seeks Comment on the Second Draft International Standard for the Protection of Privacy and Data Protection

The International Standard for the Protection of Privacy and Data Protection will form part of the International Standards developed by WADA as part of the World Anti-Doping Program. The purpose of the International Standard for the Protection of Privacy and Data Protection is to ensure that all relevant parties involved in anti-doping in sport apply suitable privacy protection in relation to the collection and use of personal data. Following careful review and study of all comments received during the first consultation phase and further individual meetings, in particular with the Council of Europe, WADA is pleased to provide for your comments the second draft of the International Standard for the Protection of Privacy and Data Protection. Click here for the document. We look forward to your comments on this second draft. Please provide any feedback on the second draft International Standard for the Protection of Privacy and Data Protection by July 14, 2008, to the WADA Legal Department by e-mail to: nicole.nezan@wada-ama.org or Fax: +1 514 904 8743.

WADA’s Third Gene Doping Symposium to Consider Advances in Gene Transfer Therapies and Detection Methods, Related Legal and Ethical Issues

WADA is organizing its third Gene Doping Symposium in Saint Petersburg, Russia, on June 10-11, 2008, with the support of the Russian sport authorities. Gene doping represents a threat to the integrity of sport and the health of athletes, and as the international organization responsible for promoting, coordinating and monitoring the global fight against doping in sport in all its forms, WADA is devoting significant resources and attention to ways to detect and deter gene doping. This third Symposium, following on those held in 2002 in Banbury (U.S.) and in 2005 in Stockholm (Sweden), will provide an opportunity to receive an update on the latest research activities and developments, consider the boundaries between therapy and enhancement from both technical and ethical perspectives, and further address legal frameworks and law enforcement issues relating to gene doping. Attendees will include experts in gene transfer, scientists from the field of anti-doping, members of WADA's Gene Doping Panel (a group of international experts responsible for studying the latest advances in the field of gene therapy, the methods for detecting doping, and the research projects funded by WADA in this area), and ethicists. For more information on WADA's work in the area of gene doping, click here.

The World Anti-Doping Agency Highlights World Metrology Day 2008—Measurement in Sport

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is pleased to promote recognition of May 20 as World Metrology Day 2008—Measurement in Sport. Metrology is the science of measurement and annually on May 20 World Metrology Day is celebrated in order to promote the importance of high quality measurement science. The theme for World Metrology Day in 2008 is Measurement in Sport—No games without Measurement. As this is an Olympic Games year the theme has been selected to highlight the importance of accurate measurements in areas such as time, distance and mass to ensure that there is comparability between different sporting achievements around the world and that the breaking of Olympic records are authenticated. The measurement of banned substances is another highly important area in which comparability of measurement between different laboratories is crucial. One of the chief strategies used to combat doping in sport centers on the List of Prohibited Substances and Methods. WADA-accredited anti-doping laboratories around the world perform an extensive suite of chemical and biological tests in relation to this List, continually screening athletes for evidence of doping. The WADA, in conjunction with the National Measurement Institute, Australia (NMIA), has been supporting research programs to produce certified reference materials (CRMs) for banned substances in human urine. The most commonly reported banned substances are anabolic steroids, specifically testosterone and nandrolone. CRMs have been developed for these two important steroids that contain the major metabolites of these compounds in freeze-dried human urine at their permitted cut-off levels. Concentrations of the steroid metabolites in these CRMs have been determined using high-accuracy reference methods. These reference materials have been certified following the world’s best practice certification guidelines including thorough stability testing and the measurement of key parameters to ensure high accuracy with low measurement uncertainties. They are designed to be used in the validation of routine test methods and as quality control materials. Reference materials play an important role in the chemical measurement infrastructure. These CRMs provide a unique opportunity for WADA-accredited anti-doping laboratories to benchmark their methods versus rigorously assigned reference values. The use of these reference materials by WADA-accredited anti-doping laboratories should strengthen the fight against doping and ensure that high quality accurate measurements are produced which are comparable throughout the world. Programs such as this link closely to the aims of World Metrology Day and this year’s Measurement in Sport theme. Further information on the infrastructure, aims and activities in international metrology can be found at www.bipm.org/en/home. Dr Lindsey Mackay National Measurement Institute, Australia lindsey.mackay@measurement.gov.au http://www.measurement.gov.au/

Revised International Standards Now Available

The revised International Standards for Testing (IST) and for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (ISTUE), approved by the Executive Committee of the World Anti-Doping Agency at its meeting on May 10, 2008, in Montreal (Canada), are now available online. These revised International Standards will come into force on January 1, 2009, along with the revised World Anti-Doping Code (Code), and are mandatory for Code compliance. For the revised IST and a Q&A outlining major changes, click here. For the revised ISTUE and a Q&A outlining major changes, click here.

WADA Advances Investigations and Enforcement Strategy, Strengthens Standards for Technical Aspects of Programs to Combat Doping in Sport

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) advanced strategies to combat doping in sport this weekend at the annual May meetings of its Executive Committee and Foundation Board. The Foundation Board discussed the importance of investigations in increasing the effectiveness of the fight against doping. Said WADA President John Fahey, AC: “Our investigations strategy, launched by WADA in 2006, is based on the recognition that doping controls do not catch all cheaters and that evidence gathered by enforcement agencies and others, shared in a legally appropriate manner with anti-doping and sport authorities helps to uncover anti-doping rule violations that might otherwise escape detection.” To this end, WADA hosted in Sydney in early May, with the support of the Australian Government, a Third Investigations Symposium convening senior level experts from sport, government and law enforcement agencies from around the world to continue the development of protocols for sharing evidence among the various parties. The protocols will be finalized in the coming months. Government Role in the Fight against Doping Governments’ active engagement in anti-doping was highlighted during the meetings: “Public authorities are embracing the critical responsibilities they have to combat doping through their contributions and participation in WADA, and many other activities at the national level,” said Fahey, himself a representative of governments in the joint sport-government partnership that is WADA. “Governments recognize that elite athletes are not the only victims of the detrimental effects of doping and that the tentacles of doping have infiltrated youth culture and broader society around the world. It is an issue of greater public health that must be confronted.” As of May 10, 2008, governments have fulfilled more than 87 percent of 2008 contributions, which is in line with the rate of contribution in 2007 and 10 percent above the contributions received by the same date in 2006. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), on behalf of the Sports Movement, matches government contributions dollar-for-dollar. A joint research project with UNESCO was announced for the collection of legislation in countries around the world which outlaw the manufacture, distribution and possession of performance enhancing substances. “Inconsistency exists among countries in the treatment of the production, use and distribution of doping substances, which confounds international efforts to curtail the dissemination of these substances—substances that have been banned by the international community as part of the Prohibited List,” continued Fahey. “The joint project with UNESCO will help us gain a better understanding of the current landscape so that those countries lacking adequate enforcement mechanisms can be encouraged to update their laws.” Under the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport—unanimously approved by the 191 members of the UNESCO General Assembly in October 2005 and to date ratified by 83 individual countries—governments must ensure that laws against the manufacture and distribution of doping substances are in place, the penalties for breaking these laws are sufficiently stringent and that the laws are enforced as such. In a related matter, the WADA Executive Committee approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to be signed with Interpol, the world’s largest police organization, for the two organizations to work together in combating the trafficking of performance-enhancing drugs. The MOU will now be delivered to Interpol to be approved by its executive bodies. World Anti-Doping Code (Code) Compliance WADA presented an interim Code compliance report to the Foundation Board. 2008 is the first year in which signatories to the 2003 Code must officially report their status in relation to Code compliance. The Code requires that signatories report to WADA every second year, explaining reasons for any non-compliance. In November this year, WADA will, for the first time, through its Foundation Board, report on cases of non-compliance to stakeholders, including the IOC, who have jurisdiction to impose sanctions. The Olympic Charter was amended in 2003 so that adoption of the Code by the Olympic Movement is mandatory and that only Code-compliant sports can be included and remain in the program of the Olympic Games. “WADA is collaborating closely with stakeholders to provide information and models that help them fill any gaps in their programs, as our ultimate objective is for all stakeholders to be implementing fully compliant anti-doping programs for the benefit of clean athletes around the world,” said WADA Director General David Howman. “It is our expectation that all anti-doping organizations falling short now will expedite their compliance and fulfill their commitments to their athletes.” Revised Code and International Standards Fahey commended the considerable work of stakeholders and staff involved in the consultation for the revision of the Code and International Standards: “Every effort was made over the past two years to solicit and incorporate the good experience and advice of stakeholders in the strengthening of anti-doping rules and procedures. This monumental task was performed with the utmost respect for everyone’s views and for achieving a final outcome that would benefit those who have a vested interest in the integrity of sport and the health of athletes.” Since its initial adoption in 2003 by Sport and Governments as the framework for the global harmonized fight against doping in sport, the Code has proven to be a fair and effective tool for combating doping. WADA launched a process to refine the Code's provisions and strengthen worldwide anti-doping programs in April 2006. Consultations extended over 18 months and involved 3 rounds of review with 3 successive draft revisions of the Code distributed to all stakeholders for feedback. In addition, WADA sought input from various stakeholder groups, which included initiating 40 individual meetings and 70 presentations. The process for participating in the consultations was made public and transparent via WADA's Web site and communications to stakeholders. Each draft revision of the Code was published online along with the official submissions made by stakeholders in response to the drafts. In parallel to the revision of the Code is the revision of the International Standards, which are aimed at bringing harmonization among anti-doping organizations (ADOs) responsible for specific technical and operational parts of the anti-doping programs. Adherence to the International Standards is mandatory for signatories to the Code. The Executive Committee approved the revised International Standard for Testing (IST), which promotes a standardized approach for ADOs to plan effective testing and to maintain the integrity and identity of the samples. The IST covers all aspects of testing, such as test distribution planning, preparing for and conducting sample collection, and transport of samples. The revised IST expands on the requirements for ADOS for establishing registered testing pools (RTPs) and collecting athlete whereabouts information, crucial for effective no-advance-notice out-of-competition testing. The Executive Committee also approved the revised International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemptions. These revised International Standards, and an additional standard relating to privacy protection to be presented to the Executive Committee at its September 2008 meeting, will come into force on January 1, 2009, along with the revised Code. Beijing Games In reporting on his visit to China in April 2008, Mr Fahey stated: “Based on our observations and discussions, I am pleased to say that the Chinese authorities are in an advanced state of preparedness for a high-quality comprehensive anti-doping program in Beijing. WADA is pleased to play a supporting role by participating in the pre-Games testing task force with the IOC and the Organizing Committee, as well as sending an Independent Observers mission to monitor the doping control process throughout the Games. We will also have our Athlete Outreach program on hand during the Games to promote understanding and support of clean sport among athletes and officials.” Science & Medicine In the area of science, collaboration has been initiated with external organizations such as pharmaceutical companies and drug agencies to improve early identification of potentially doping substances among new drugs in clinical development. Similarly, a collaborative agreement has been forged with the International Federation of Sports Medicine (FIMS) for the proper education of doctors practicing sports medicine in relation to doping substances. Athlete’s Passport The Executive Committee recommended the continuation of WADA’s strategy in relation to the Athlete’s Passport. Specifically, WADA will continue its three-part approach involving research, harmonization and monitoring. In the area of research, WADA will continue its involvement in different research and development programs to continue to advance the science behind the concept. According to WADA’s global mandate to harmonize the fight against doping, WADA will continue to provide help and assistance to anti-doping organizations interested in implementing the method by continuing to refine and harmonize various technical and practical elements relating to the programs (e.g. protocols for analysis and a special module in ADAMS for data management). Finally, WADA will monitor the implementation of these programs to ensure compliance with the Code. Results Management Responsibilities The Executive Committee directed WADA management to facilitate a process with International Federations and National Anti-Doping Organizations to review responsibilities in results management and criteria for ensuring consistency and harmony in processes managed by ADOs, including in relation to sanctions and appeals. The subject arose during the discussion of litigation costs to the Agency in which certain IFs had failed to follow-through on responsibilities to anti-doping in the respective sports and left it to the international agency to bear the burden of time and costs. Education WADA reported on a new initiative in the area of education. Noting that education, targeting all ages but youth in particular, is the key to preventing doping from occurring in the first place and is the most critical strategy for creating long-term success, WADA has undertaken the development of a youth education program based on Spirit of Sport values, incorporating scenario-based activities for decision-making in line with these values, and within a fun and engaging environment. ADAMS Momentum in the adoption of ADAMS by stakeholders was reported on by WADA management. ADAMS (Anti-Doping Administration System) is the web-based database management system developed for stakeholders in their management of the doping control and results management process. Anti-Doping Development Board members were also informed of the development of Regional Anti-Doping Organizations (RADOs). Under this program, WADA initiates the creation of RADOs that will assume responsibility for anti-doping in areas of the world where there currently is limited or no anti-doping activity. The Agency works with stakeholders in the regions so that resources and expertise are shared in the establishment of anti-doping education and testing programs. A total of 15 RADOs have been created, engaging the participation of 122 countries. The ultimate objective is global coverage of harmonized Code-compliant anti-doping programs. Statutes The Executive Committee asked management to undertake a review of Article 7 of the Agency’s Statutes to determine whether there exists ambiguity that would require revision. Contact for the media: Frédéric Donzé, Manager, Media Relations & Communications Phone : + 1-514-904-8820 E-mail : frederic.donze@wada-ama.org

Clarification on Inaccurate Comments about Athlete Whereabouts Information

Following public comments by representatives from the Professional Players' Federation (PPF - the body representing the English Professional Footballers’ Association and the Professional Cricketers’ Association), the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) would like to clarify the following points. These statements are regrettably based on inaccurate information. During the consultation process for the revision of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) and the International Standard for Testing (IST), which aims at ensuring a harmonized approach for anti-doping organizations to plan effective testing, all WADA stakeholders were urged to provide WADA with their feedback to build on the experience gained by WADA and its stakeholders in the application of the Code and the IST since their coming into force in January 2004 and to improve anti-doping protocols and processes. The IST review was fully open and transparent, and included four phases of consultation (spanning two years) and the circulation of several revised IST drafts to stakeholders. WADA was pleased to read that the PPF had taken the time to peruse the IST. Regrettably, however, the document that was commented on by the group and raised within the media is not the document which is presently to be considered by the WADA Executive Committee. WADA ensures that it hears the voices of all, and makes every effort to receive information, submissions, and other matters from athletes in particular. Indeed, WADA invited the PPF to submit its comments on the IST last year. The date for receiving such submissions was at the end of October 2007. Subsequently, WADA has embarked on further discussions and consultation to ensure that its new Standard was clearly understood by all. This phase included consultation with WADA’s Athlete Committee, with individuals who provided further submissions, with team sports, including the English Football Association (FA) and FIFA, and many others. It is disappointing that the PPF saw fit to criticize a document which is now outdated, and did so without any reference to WADA or request for further data. In fact, the new document has taken heed of issues surrounding team sports and the WADA Executive Committee will address the new document and consider its approval at its meeting on May 10 in Montreal. In order to recognize team sports, and in consultation with international federations of team sports, the revised IST has now included a special section which confirms that much of the whereabouts information filed for players on those teams will be collective “team activity” information, and that it is therefore likely that those filings will be made by team officials on a collective basis rather than by players on an individual basis. However, to maintain equal treatment for all athletes, players in team sports are not exempted from the standard whereabouts requirements. Therefore, an athlete in a team sport cannot avoid responsibility by blaming the team for filing inaccurate information about his/her whereabouts. It is also to be noted that all the opinions WADA has obtained since the Code was first drafted in 2002-2003 indicate that whereabouts requirements in the IST are proportionate. In fact, a ruling from a civil court in Spain last year in relation to the whereabouts standard and rules which form part of the IST in force upheld the validity of out-of-competition whereabouts requirements. There has been no other suggestion or claim that the IST, or the specific whereabouts rules adopted by various anti-doping organizations in conformity with the IST, amounted to a breach of any right of privacy or, for that matter, any other particular right.

WADA Executive Committee and Board to Discuss Enforcement of Investigations Strategies, Code Compliance, Current Anti-Doping Issues in Sport on May 10-11

The Executive Committee and Foundation Board of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) will meet respectively on Saturday, May 10, and Sunday, May 11, 2008, in Montreal, Canada, for the first time this year. These Executive Committee and Foundation Board meetings will also be the first to be held under the presidency of the Hon. John Fahey since the commencement of his term as WADA President on January 1, 2008. During these two days, members representing Governments of the world and the Olympic Movement will review the latest advances made in relation to WADA's investigations strategy. This strategy, launched in 2006, is based on the recognition that doping controls do not catch all cheaters and that evidence gathered by enforcement agencies and others, shared in a legally appropriate manner, with anti-doping and sport authorities helps to uncover anti-doping rule violations that might otherwise escape detection. On May 1-2, in collaboration with the Australian government, WADA is co-organizing in Sydney a third symposium convening representatives from these groups to discuss the drafting of protocols and best practices for the sharing of evidence and information among organizations. This will be completed in 2008 and will be a significant addition to WADA's strategies to remove cheaters from competition. WADA's Board and Executive Committee will also discuss stakeholders' compliance with the 2003 World Anti-Doping Code (Code). 2008 is the first year in which signatories to the 2003 Code must officially report their status in relation to Code-compliance. The Code requires that signatories report to WADA every second year, explaining reasons for any non-compliance. In November this year, WADA will, for the first time, through its Foundation Board, report on cases of non-compliance to stakeholders, including the International Olympic Committee (IOC), who have jurisdiction to impose sanctions. The Olympic Charter was amended in 2003 so that adoption of the Code by the Olympic Movement is mandatory and that only Code-compliant sports can be included and remain in the program of the Olympic Games. In addition, members will discuss the implementation of the revised Code, which will come into force on January 1, 2009, and revisions to the International Standards for Testing and for Therapeutic Use Exemption—which can be approved by the Executive Committee—as well as a new draft International Standard for the Protection of Privacy. International Standards are aimed at bringing harmonization among anti-doping organizations in various technical areas and are mandatory for Code signatories. If approved, these revised Standards shall come into force on or prior to January 1, 2009. Among other topics to be addressed at the meetings are updates on preparations for the 2008 Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games in the field of anti-doping; ratifications by individual countries of the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport (ratified by 83 countries to date); the latest advances in the area of science; progress of anti-doping organizations in their implementation of the Anti-Doping Administration and Management System (ADAMS); current issues in relation to recent doping cases and investigations; and WADA's 2009 draft budget. Members will be updated on the Agency's activities in all areas, including athlete education for fair play and prevention, anti-doping development, Independent Observers, and regional offices.

Clarification on WADA’s Role in Florian Busch Case

Following misleading information in the public domain, WADA would like to clarify the following points. Contrary to a report posted on May 3 on the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Web site, WADA has not "cleared" the German ice hockey player Florian Busch from an anti-doping rule violation. As the international independent organization responsible for coordinating and monitoring the fight against doping in sport, WADA's duty is to monitor anti-doping activities worldwide to ensure proper implementation of and compliance with the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), the document harmonizing anti-doping rules in all sports and all countries, by international sports federations (IFs) and national anti-doping organizations (NADOs). In this case, WADA was notified on April 24 of the decision rendered by the German Ice Hockey Federation (DEB) to not impose a ban on the player. Since then, WADA has been trying to obtain, through the German National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), the rules of the DEB regarding WADA's right of appeal. Unfortunately, after trying for several days to receive this information, WADA was informed by the NADA that the DEB would not answer questions prior to the end of the IIHF World Championships, which are currently being held in Canada. Due to this lack of cooperation, WADA has now formally requested the IIHF to open proceedings against the player on the basis of the IIHF rules and to provisionally suspend the player from any competition.

Beijing Issue of Play True Magazine Previews WADA’s Anti-Doping Role at Olympic and Paralympic Games

The Beijing issue of WADA's flagship magazine, Play True, is now available. As the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and International Paralympic Committee prepare for their anti-doping activities during this year's Summer Games, WADA puts in motion the resources and expertise that will oversee a range of important supporting responsibilities. This "Beijing 2008" issue of Play True profiles WADA's roles, including sending an Independent Observers mission, delivering Athlete Outreach and participating in the Pre-Games Testing Task Force. Play True also features a guest editorial from IOC President Jacques Rogge on his policy of zero tolerance for cheaters, as well as an in-depth interview with Sir Craig Reedie, Chairman of WADA's Finance and Administration Committee, on resources and funding of the global fight against doping in sport. Among other features are a report from WADA's Athlete Committee on its latest gathering, a look at what stakeholders' obligations are in relation to World Anti-Doping Code compliance reporting in 2008, and highlights of the growing success of ADAMS, the Web-based database management system for anti-doping organizations and athletes. Click here to download a copy of Play True.

WADA Holds Third Investigations Symposium

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WADA Congratulates FINA, the First Sport to Implement the Revised Code

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WADA President Fahey in China on Official Visit

WADA President John Fahey is in Beijing (China) this week for meetings with the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) and the Chinese authorities responsible for the fight against doping in the country. To read Mr. Fahey’s speech to the ANOC General Assembly, click here.

Eighty Countries Have Now Ratified UNESCO Convention against Doping in Sport

With Italy and Guatemala having completed their ratification procedure, 80 countries have now ratified the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport, adopted unanimously by the 191 governments present at the UNESCO General Conference in October 2005 and which came into force on February 1, 2007. The UNESCO Convention—the first universal treaty against doping in sport—is the practical instrument by which governments formalize their commitment to the fight against doping. Because many governments cannot be bound by a non-governmental document such as the World Anti-Doping Code (the document harmonizing anti-doping rules in all sports and all countries), this Convention permits governments to align their domestic policies with the Code and to thus harmonize the rules governing anti-doping in sport and public legislation. WADA is in permanent contact with UNESCO and the different governments that have not yet ratified the treaty in order to facilitate and encourage its rapid ratification. In addition, the revised World Anti-Doping Code (Code), unanimously endorsed by delegates from sports and governments at the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport in November 2007 and to come into force on January 1, 2009, states that, starting in 2009, the International Olympic Committee will accept bids for the Olympic Games only from countries where the government has ratified the UNESCO Convention and where the National Olympic Committee, National Paralympic Committee and National Anti-Doping Organization are in compliance with the Code. The revised Code also calls International Federations to do everything possible to award World Championships only to countries where the government has ratified the Convention and where the National Olympic Committee, National Paralympic Committee and National Anti-Doping Organization are in compliance with the Code, starting on January 1, 2010. Click here to view the updated list of countries who have ratified the Convention.

UCI Lawsuit Causes Termination of WADA Pilot Project in Cycling “Athlete’s Passport”

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) announced today that, as a result of the UCI’s lawsuit against WADA (see below for WADA’s March 25, statement regarding the UCI lawsuit) and its obvious and inherent legal and practical implications, WADA has withdrawn its support of the UCI in relation to WADA’s pilot project of the “Athlete’s Passport.” WADA maintains its commitment to the Athlete’s Passport concept and its potential benefit to augmenting strategies to combat doping and WADA will continue the pilot project with another sport. “WADA agreed to pilot its Athlete’s Passport project with the UCI, rather than any other sport, in an attempt to help restore cycling to a cleaner and more credible state,” said WADA President John Fahey. “This came following a cycling season and Tour de France in 2007 in which cycling was yet again wracked with doping scandals. Since October 2007, WADA has supported the UCI, in financial and human resources, with this pilot project. But in light of the UCI’s attack on WADA, we now find a partnership with the UCI untenable and will therefore initiate dialogue with other sports in order to advance the Athlete’s Passport project.” Click here for more information about the Athlete’s Passport concept and its potential to enhance anti-doping strategies. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Title: WADA Responds to UCI Press Release Date: March 25, 2008 On March 20, 2008, the UCI announced in a press release that it and its former president, Hein Verbruggen, had “sued” the former president of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), Richard W. Pound, for “what they perceive as being continual injurious and biased comments by Mr. Pound against UCI and Mr. Verbruggen in the context of the efforts made by them to eradicate doping” from the sport of cycling. This action by UCI in suing WADA’s former president is in fact an action against WADA. WADA will be taking all steps necessary to ensure that the court is fully informed of issues and facts relating to doping in cycling. WADA will instruct legal counsel to represent WADA and its former president in this regard, and to robustly defend and reject the unfounded allegations made by the UCI. It is especially disappointing that the UCI takes these steps and commits its finances to legal action against WADA, rather than assisting in the funding of the Landis appeal. UCI specifically declined to contribute to the Landis case on the grounds that it had “no budget” to do so. Yet the appeal was specifically conducted under UCI rules, involved a breach of the sport’s anti-doping policy, and is a major case for the sport. (NB: USADA conducted the hearings under delegated authority from USA Cycling, the UCI’s national member in the U.S.)

WADA Responds to UCI Press Release

On March 20, 2008, the UCI announced in a press release that it and its former president, Hein Verbruggen, had “sued” the former president of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), Richard W. Pound, for “what they perceive as being continual injurious and biased comments by Mr. Pound against UCI and Mr. Verbruggen in the context of the efforts made by them to eradicate doping” from the sport of cycling. This action by UCI in suing WADA’s former president is in fact an action against WADA. WADA will be taking all steps necessary to ensure that the court is fully informed of issues and facts relating to doping in cycling. WADA will instruct legal counsel to represent WADA and its former president in this regard, and to robustly defend and reject the unfounded allegations made by the UCI. It is especially disappointing that the UCI takes these steps and commits its finances to legal action against WADA, rather than assisting in the funding of the Landis appeal. UCI specifically declined to contribute to the Landis case on the grounds that it had “no budget” to do so. Yet the appeal was specifically conducted under UCI rules, involved a breach of the sport’s anti-doping policy, and is a major case for the sport. (NB: USADA conducted the hearings under delegated authority from USA Cycling, the UCI’s national member in the U.S.)

WADA Announces Its 2009 Social Science Research Grant Program

WADA invites applications for its 2009 Social Science Research Grant Program. This Program encourages research in the social sciences to obtain information which will enable more efficient doping prevention strategies. WADA awards research grants to organizations of all types (universities, colleges, small businesses, for-profit or not-for-profit organizations…). The deadline for submissions for the 2009 competition is July 11, 2008. For the Call for Proposals, the Application Guidelines and other related documents, click here.

Presentations from WADA Media Symposium now Online

WADA has now posted online speeches and presentations from the Agency’s Media Symposium, held on February 27 at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland. WADA’s updated press kit can also be downloaded from the Media Center. Click here to access the documents.

Revised World Anti-Doping Code now Available

The revised World Anti-Doping Code (Code), which was unanimously approved by the delegates at the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport and adopted by WADA's Foundation Board on November 17, 2007, is now available online. This revised Code will come into force on January 1, 2009. For the revised Code and a Q&A outlining major changes, click here.

Independent Legal Opinion Finds Code Revision Compatible with Fundamental Rights of Athletes

Originally posted on November 15, 2007 An independent legal opinion reviewing article 10.6 of the Revised World Anti-Doping Code (3.0), which proposes increased sanctions for anti-doping rule violations involving aggravating circumstances, has found that the proposal complies with the fundamental rights of athletes. Click here for the executive summary and the full legal opinion.

Former WADA President receives Laureus award

Former WADA President Richard W. Pound received this week the 2008 "Spirit of Sport" award from the Laureus World Sports Academy in a ceremony held in Saint-Petersburg, Russia. The Laureus awards recognize every year significant achievments in sports. "The Spirit of Sport Award recognizes the struggle of one man who over 20 years has been a crusader against doping in sport," said former US track star Edwin Moses, chairman of the Laureus World Sports Academy. "Always outspoken, often vilified within sport and the media, he has remained steadfast in his convictions that doping equals cheating and is systematically destroying sport from within. Given the last sporting year's revelations he has been proven right." "Last year he stepped down after eight years as president of the World Anti-Doping Agency, but his dedication to raising this issue to the top of the sporting and governmental agenda is exemplary." Mr Pound, still a member of WADA's Foundation Board, said: "Winning this award is fabulous both for me and for the recognition that the Laureus World Sports Academy has thus given to the fight against drugs in sport. I am delighted and honoured to be recognized by a body of such sporting legends, and it is a wonderful end to my eight years as chairman of the World Anti-Doping Agency."

Call for proposals for scientific research grants 2008

WADA is committed to increasing the volume of research dedicated to developing new and improved detection methods for performance-enhancing substances and methods. Since 2001, WADA has committed more than US$37 million to scientific research. Scientists interested in applying to WADA's scientific research program in 2008 are invited to submit their applications by May 2, 2008. For more information about the 2008 program and applications, click here. Para este texto en español, haga clic aquí

Llamado a concurso de proyectos de investigación científica 2008

La Agencia Mundial Antidopaje está comprometida a aumentar el volumen de investigación dedicado a desarrollar nuevos y mejores métodos de detección de sustancias y métodos dopantes. Desde el 2001, la AMA ha invertido más de 37 millones US$ en proyectos de investigación científica. Se invita a los investigadores interesados en el Programa Científico de la AMA 2008 a presentar sus propuestas hasta el 2 de mayo del 2008. Para mayores detalles sobre el programa 2008 y sus requisitos, haga clic aquí.

Countries of the Americas Give Strong Backing to WADA and the Fight against Doping

During the eighth meeting of the Americas Council of Sports (CADE), held in Montevideo (Uruguay) on February 14–15, 2008, the CADE member countries expressed their strong commitment to fight against doping in sports and their support of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), its mission and its activities. In a move to fulfill the region’s funding commitments to WADA and to shore up vital resources committed to the global fight against doping, CADE member countries approved the formula for annual WADA contributions based on the current Organization of American States formula. Member countries also voiced a strong call to those countries that have not yet ratified the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport to do so without delay, as the UNESCO Convention is the practical tool by which governments align their domestic policies with the universally approved World Anti-Doping Code. All of the Americas countries are CADE members. Participants of this eighth assembly include: Argentina, Aruba, Barbados, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Equator, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haití, Honduras, Jamaica, México, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, United States, Uruguay and Venezuela. WADA is funded equally by the Olympic Movement and the governments of the world. In 2001, the governments determined and agreed to a region formula by which they fund half of WADA’s budget. Within each region, governments agree internally to each of their individual share.

Play True Magazine Outlines Code Revisions

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Athlete Whereabouts by SMS: New Feature in ADAMS

A new SMS feature added recently to ADAMS makes it simple for athletes to submit Whereabouts updates using a mobile phone, smart phone, or PDA. While athletes are still required to enter Whereabouts into ADAMS on a quarterly basis, this new SMS feature facilitates updates, especially when Internet is not available. How it works: An athlete enters a short message describing his or her change of plans and sends this via SMS directly to ADAMS using a “virtual” mobile number. Upon receipt, ADAMS files this message in the athlete’s Whereabouts calendar as determined by the athlete’s mobile telephone number. A notification is automatically sent to the anti-doping organization’s Whereabouts coordinator indicating that an SMS message has been received from the athlete. The notification contains a link to the received message. When the Whereabouts coordinator opens the notification, the athlete’s record will be automatically retrieved and the corresponding month’s Whereabouts calendar will be displayed on the screen. The Whereabouts coordinator will update the athlete’s calendar as instructed by the SMS text message. The real-time availability of Whereabouts updates will help to ensure greater efficiency for both anti-doping organizations and athletes. Because Whereabouts information can be modified from anywhere, athletes have more flexibility in keeping information current. ADAMS (Anti-Doping Administration & Management System) is the web-based database management system that simplifies the daily activities of all stakeholders and athletes involved in the anti-doping system. ADAMS is used by anti-doping and sports organizations to manage the doping control and results management processes in a multi-level access system that protects the security and confidentiality of data. Developed and managed by WADA, ADAMS is available free of charge in seven languages (English, French, Spanish, Japanese, German, Russian and Arabic). For more information, click here.

WADA Seeks Stakeholder Comments on the Draft Revision of the International Standard for TUE

WADA is pleased to provide the recently revised second International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE), version 1.1, January 2008, for stakeholder review and comment. Click here for the documents.

WADA Applauds PGA Tour Anti-Doping Initiative

The World Anti-Doping Agency applauds the actions taken by the PGA Tour to institute an anti-doping program based on the World Anti-Doping Code. “The PGA Tour anti-doping program is based in large part on the universally accepted rules, promulgated in 2004, in the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) and related International Standards,” said WADA Director General David Howman. "No sport is immune to the threat of doping, and we congratulate the PGA Tour for taking the initiative to ensure measures are in place that help protect athlete health and the sport’s integrity.” “We are particularly supportive of their educational program,” continued Howman. “The PGA Tour has taken very responsible action toward its players by hosting educational sessions prior to commencing testing in July so that the players are fully informed of the dangers and consequences of doping.”

Public Authorities and Sport Movement Contributions to WADA Reached Highest Annual Level in 2007

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WADA Criticizes MLB and Union for Continued Evasion of Anti-Doping Reform

WADA Separates Fact from MLB Fiction and Calls for Real Action The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) laments Major League Baseball’s (MLB) and the Players Association’s (MLBPA) continued resistance to implementing meaningful anti-doping reform. “Professional baseball’s response to Sen. Mitchell’s report is baffling,” said WADA President John Fahey. “To suggest that it might continue to keep its anti-doping testing program in-house, after 18-months of investigation led by one of the most respected individuals in modern public affairs who, in the final analysis, concluded that the league’s anti-doping testing program needs to be managed in its entirety by an independent third party, is demeaning to Sen. Mitchell and the Congressional Committees who view doping as a serious threat to public health.” “Equally reprehensible is their blatant disregard for the truth,” continued Fahey. “Contrary to what they have told Congress this week, there is a reliable test for hGH; the storing of blood is practical, in Fact has been effectively in practice for some time in World Anti-Doping Code-compliant testing. It’s time to separate Fact from MLB fiction.” MLB Fiction: There is no reliable test for hGH. Fact: A scientifically valid and effective test for hGH exists. HGH testing has been applied at the Olympic Games. Commercial kits are in development for future large scale testing. MLB is aware of the reliable test for hGH, or at least, they have no excuse not to be aware of the test. WADA, on several occasions over the past two years, has written to the MLB offering to host a meeting between WADA scientific experts and the MLB to update them on the science and to offer to work together should the MLB wish to join the effort to combat hGH abuse in sports. With very little effort on their part and in very little time, MLB could make a very positive impact in the world of sport by cooperating with WADA. For more information on hGH testing, click here. MLB Fiction: Storing blood is not practical. Fact: Freezing liquid fraction of blood (serum or plasma) is a scientifically acceptable solution that allows for the preservation of substances in samples for future testing and detection. Research has shown that hGH is very stable in frozen serum or plasma. WADA encourages anti-doping organizations under the World Anti-Doping Code to store blood samples when relevant. Storing serum or plasma for future testing has a significant deterrent effect. The World Anti-Doping Code makes it possible to open a disciplinary proceeding within eight years from the date an anti-doping rule violation occurred. To not collect and store blood samples, when you have the resources and opportunity, is to essentially give players a free pass to hGH abuse. MLB Fiction: The Current MLB testing program is “independent” enough Fact: The MLB testing program is not independent. Independence can only be achieved through outsourcing the program to a third party. Independence is necessary because it ensures that there is no conflict of interest and that accountability of all parties (including players and management) is upheld. Accountability would ensure that no loopholes would exist to be exploited by management and players, such as the current system used to get around the amphetamines ban by making attention deficit disorder claims in order to have access to stimulants like Ritalin. “This is a final crossroads for baseball, and Congress for that matter: the negotiations between the league and players association, that they say will be completed by March 1, must address these issues in full,” said Fahey. “Notwithstanding other recent initiatives by the MLB to address doping, such as the funding of anti-doping research, by not wholly embracing Sen. Mitchell’s recommendations, especially those regarding independent third-party testing and hGH testing, MLB and the MLBPA are essentially thumbing their nose at those who care about the integrity of the game and the millions of youth who are impacted by what the professionals do.”

WADA Hails Anti-Doping Research Partnership

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WADA and CONFEJES Partner in the Fight against Doping

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Canada is Proud to Host World Anti-Doping Agency Headquarters Until 2021

On December 19, 2007, WADA President Richard W. Pound participated in a ceremony with the Honourable Michael M. Fortier, Canadian Minister of Public Works and Government Services, and several other dignitaries to celebrate the commitment of the governments of Canada and Quebec to hosting the WADA headquarters for an additional ten years, extending the agreement to 2021. Click here for the Canadian Government’s press release. To view or listen to the recording, click here.

Q&A on Human Growth Hormone Testing

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WADA Statement on Mitchell Report

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) welcomes Sen. George Mitchell’s report exposing the depth of the drug problem and urging progress in the fight against doping in major league baseball. WADA supports many of his conclusions and recommendations, including the recommendation that Major League Baseball must institute a credible testing program that is fully transparent, implemented by an independent third party, and incorporates year-round, no-advance-notice testing. “The program that Sen. Mitchell is recommending is based largely on the model developed by WADA and universally approved and implemented by Sport and Governments around the world,” said WADA President Richard W. Pound. “The real question now is, what will MLB and the players’ association do? They must look at changes to the collective bargaining agreement immediately. They now have no credible reason to delay.” As for the recommendation to waive disciplinary action against those players who were found through the report to have used banned drugs, Mr. Pound expressed his concern that accountability should not be lost in the process of moving beyond the current drug era of baseball. “WADA supports the principle of accountability, and holding everyone responsible for their own actions, including not only the players, but also the clubs and the management," said Pound. "After all, we’re talking about sport. Sport is based on rules. And when rules are broken, there must be consequences. If there’s to be any kind of amnesty, then it should promote a real truth and reconciliation that motivates all of those who have doped to be forthcoming in order to achieve a true clean slate, for the sake of restoring real integrity to the sport.” WADA also supports the recommendation of a completely independent investigatory office to follow-up on allegations of anti-doping rules violations. “It is clear that the most effective strategy in combating doping in sport involves a combination of several programs, including testing, education, and investigations,” continued Pound. “Non-analytical evidence is just as important in determining a doping violation as a positive test. We have been promoting this approach and promoting collaboration between the Sport Movement and government and law enforcement authorities to ensure that we can attack doping in this way as well.”

WADA President Meets with Victor Conte

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WADA Congratulates UK for Independent Anti-Doping Organization

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) applauds the initiative of the UK Department for Culture, Media & Sport and UK Sport to establish an independent national anti-doping organization. “WADA congratulates Gerry Sutcliffe and UK Sport for this very positive and decisive action,” said WADA Director General David Howman. “The new model is based on the evolution of anti-doping that requires a strong independent anti-doping organization able to coordinate and collaborate with other entities such as law enforcement authorities to ensure an effective fight against doping in sport. WADA looks forward to supporting and working with the new agency.”

In Search of the Spirit of Sport

The struggle for the future, and perhaps the soul, of sport is an ongoing conflict. The arguments pressed by the opponents of doping control have not changed much at all in the quarter-century since Thomas H. Murray, PhD, of the Hastings Center began his research into the ethics of performance enhancement in sport. Five arguments come up repeatedly in one variation or another. Each of them seems plausible at first, but each one has serious flaws. Click here for Thomas Murray’s article.

Code Review & Consultation: December Update

WADA would like to thank all stakeholders who provided comments during the three phases of the Code Revision process which have helped to harmonize the needs of the various stakeholders and to produce a stronger World Anti-Doping Code. Click here for the most recent monthly update relating to the revised Code.

Athlete’s Passport Q&A

In response to numerous inquiries, WADA has published online a Q&A on the Athlete’s Passport in order to clarify questions and provide more information about the longitudinal tracking of athlete biological data in the context of anti-doping. To read the Q&A, click here.

WADA Announces Appointments to 2008 Working Committees

International Expertise Contributes to Advances in Anti-Doping in Sport The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is pleased to announce the appointments of its Working Committees for the year 2008. The Working Committees play a key advisory role in policy and priority development for the international agency responsible for monitoring and coordinating the global fight against doping in sport. The Committee appointments were approved by the WADA Foundation Board at its meeting on November 17, 2007, in Madrid (Spain), hosted in conjunction with the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport. Nominations for committee membership are sought each year from WADA’s stakeholders, including government and sport authorities. A rotation system ensures that one-third of committee members are replaced every year. The Committees, whose responsibilities are described below, report to the Executive Committee, WADA’s supreme decision-making body. The Health, Medical & Research Committee (HM&R) provides expert advice to enable WADA to serve as world leader on health, medical and research issues related to drug-free sport. The HM&R Committee monitors scientific developments in sport to safeguard doping-free sport practice, oversees the various scientific working groups in relation to the Prohibited List, Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUE), and Laboratory Accreditation, and participates in the selection process of scientific research projects. WADA’s Athlete Committee represents the views and rights of athletes worldwide, while providing insight and oversight into athletes’ roles and responsibilities as it relates to anti-doping. The committee is comprised of Olympic, Paralympic and other elite-level athlete leaders from around the world who assist in raising awareness about anti-doping and promote the Play True message, as well as actively liaise with and provide feedback from government, regional and national leaders about anti-doping initiatives. The Education Committee provides expert advice, recommendations and guidance to WADA management with respect to both short-term education strategies and activities, and longer term approaches to WADA’s education programs. The Finance & Administration Committee advises WADA management and the Executive Committee with respect to budget development, funding, and financial and administrative policy. Memberships to the Working Committees, to commence on January 1, 2008, are listed here. WADA’s Working Groups, whose mandates are to provide specific expert advice on certain areas, are also included.

WADA Seeks Comment on Draft Revision of the International Standard for Testing

WADA is pleased to provide the recently revised draft International Standard for Testing (IST), posted on the WADA Web site. The purpose of the IST is to plan for effective testing and to maintain the integrity and identity of samples, from notifying the athlete to transporting samples for analysis as well as handling whereabouts information and missed tests. Following an extensive consultation process prior to the World Anti-Doping Conference in Madrid, a revised version of the standard (V 3.0, October 2007) is now available for review online. We encourage your continued comment on the draft standard during this consultation period which will conclude in May 2008, at which time the Standard will be tabled for final approval by the WADA Executive Committee. This version will be further developed in the New Year based on the feedback you are able to provide as well as the continued direct consultation with all WADA stakeholders. You will also find versions of the standard which have been redlined to the 2.0 version (2007) and the active 2003 version for your reference. Additionally, an explanatory note on the development of the standard has been included to assist in the comprehension of the draft Standard. Click here for the documents. The deadline for feedback during this consultation period is January 21, 2008. Please submit comment to the WADA Standards and Harmonization Department by e-mail to: stuart.kemp@wada-ama.org, or Fax: +1 514 904 2266.

WADA President-elect, the Hon. John Fahey A.C., Holds Two Days of Intensive Meetings with Management Team, Discusses Future Strategies in the Fight against Doping in Sport

On November 19-20, 2007, the Hon. John Fahey A.C., president-elect of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), spent two days at WADA headquarters in Montreal meeting with WADA management and discussing strategies for future activities. The meetings, held only two days following his election as WADA’s incoming president, were intended to provide Mr. Fahey with an in-depth briefing of WADA’s activities and programs in the lead-up to his taking office on 1 January 2008. “It has been extremely important and helpful for me to consult with WADA’s highly skilled and experienced staff and to seek their views on current and future strategies in the global fight against doping in sport,” said Mr. Fahey. “These briefings will help me to get ahead of the learning curve so that I can hit the ground running come January 1.” At its November 17, 2007, meeting, held in Madrid (Spain) in conjunction with the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport, the WADA Foundation Board elected Mr. Fahey, former Finance Minister of Australia and a representative of Governments, as its next president. Prof. Arne Ljungqvist, member of the International Olympic Committee, chairman of WADA's Health, Medical and Research Committee and representing the Olympic Movement, was chosen as the vice president. WADA’s leadership is nominated by each of the two sets of stakeholders—the Olympic Movement and Governments—following the principle of rotation so that there will be an alternation of representation between the Sport Movement and Governments in the president and vice president positions respectively. “Mr. Fahey’s extensive experience and acumen in leading major initiatives, including at the cabinet level of government, will serve him well as president of the international agency responsible for working with Sport and Governments in leading the global harmonized fight against doping in sport,” said WADA Director General David Howman. WADA's current president, Mr. Richard Pound, representing the Olympic Movement, was appointed as WADA’s president when WADA was created in November 1999. He was reappointed in 2001 and 2004 for two further terms, the latter to expire on December 31, 2007. Mr. Fahey and Prof. Ljungqvist will serve a three-year term each, to begin on January 1, 2008.

WADA Board Selects The Hon. John Fahey A.C. as next President, Prof Arne Ljungqvist as next Vice President

The Hon. John Fahey A.C., former Finance Minister of Australia and a representative of Governments, was selected by the WADA Foundation Board to serve as its next President. Prof Arne Ljungqvist, IOC Member, Chairman of WADA's Health, Medical and Research Committee and representing the Olympic Movement, was chosen as the Vice President. WADA’s Foundation Board members are nominated by each of the two sets of stakeholders—the Olympic Movement and Governments. At its meeting on November 20, 2006, WADA’s Foundation Board formalized in the Agency’s Statutes the principle of rotation in the president and vice president seats so that there will be an alternation of representation between the Sport Movement and Governments in the president and vice-president positions respectively. WADA's current President, Mr Richard Pound, representing the Olympic Movement, was appointed as WADA’s president when WADA was created in November 1999. He was reappointed in 2001 and 2004 for two further terms, the latter to expire on December 31, 2007. Mr Fahey and Prof Ljungqvist will serve a three-year term each, to begin on January 1, 2008.

Governments, Sports Adopt Resolution at World Conference to Redouble Efforts and Intensify Global Fight against Doping in Sport

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World Conference: Daily Summary, November 16

The Third World Conference on Doping in Sport, organized by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) with the support of the Spanish High Council for Sport in Madrid (Spain), has brought together more than 1,500 representatives of public authorities, the Sport Movement, the anti-doping community, athletes, observers, and the media to review the major advances that have been made in the fight against doping since WADA’s inception in late 1999, and what strategies will be needed in the future. As such, the chief topic of discussion this week is the Revised World Anti-Doping Code, the core document adopted in 2003 by the Sport Movement and Governments of the world as the framework for the global harmonized fight against doping in sport. The purpose of the revision is to leverage the experience gained to date and to strengthen anti-doping programs worldwide. The World Conference is being held over a period of two and a half days, from November 15 – 17, 2007. Summary of Day 2 (November 16) Day 2 was dedicated to the Revised World Anti-Doping Code (Code) and interventions made by delegates from the Governments and the Sports Movement. Code Review Process: The first session provided an overview of the process that was used to seek stakeholder input for revisions to the Code. WADA launched the review process in April 2006 in consultation will all stakeholders. Consultations extended over 18 months and involved 3 rounds of review with 3 successive draft revisions of the Code distributed to everyone for their feedback. In addition, proactive efforts were made to seek input from various stakeholder groups, which included some 40 individual meetings held and 70 presentations given. To ensure transparency, the process for participating in the consultations was made public via WADA’s Web site and in communications to stakeholders; and each draft revision of the Code was published online along with the official submissions made by stakeholders in response to the drafts (unless the stakeholder requested otherwise). Each of the 216 official submissions received was carefully considered in the context of making practical improvements to the Code and strengthening anti-doping programs worldwide. The final draft revised Code was published on October 15, in anticipation of the World Conference and the meeting of WADA’s Foundation Board on November 17, and is a result of contributions made by everyone who has respected and participated in the wholly transparent and inclusive process made available to everyone. Everyone with an interest in contributing to the improvement of the Code has had the opportunity to participate. Interventions made by stakeholders: The rest of the sessions were dedicated to allowing stakeholders to make interventions regarding the Code and revisions. The interventions that have been made available to WADA will be posted on the World Conference Web site early on November 17. Additional information in relation to the Conference can be found at www.wadamadrid2007.com, available in English, Spanish and French. Live Web casts and daily recordings of the plenary sessions of the Conference are also available from this Web site.

World Conference: Daily Summary, November 15

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WADA Strengthens Fight against Doping in Sport

More than 1,500 Representatives Convene at Historic Third World Conference, Debate Future Strategies and Revise World Anti-Doping Code The Third World Conference on Doping in Sport, officially opening tomorrow in Madrid, Spain, will mark a major milestone in the strengthening of global efforts to combat doping in sport through its consideration of the revised World Anti-Doping Code (Code). "Doping is without doubt the greatest threat ethical sport has ever known and has become so pervasive that it places public health at grave risk," said World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) President Richard W. Pound. "It is incumbent upon the Sport Movement and Governments of the world to continue to bolster efforts to battle the scourge of doping, which is what they will do during this Third World Conference on Doping in Sport, by approving refinements to the World Anti-Doping Code and by discussing emerging trends and strategies for continued progress." At the World Conference, organized by WADA with the support of the Spanish High Council for Sport, more than 1,500 representatives of public authorities, the Sport Movement, the anti-doping community, athletes, observers, and the media will convene to review the major advances that have been made in the fight against doping since WADA's inception in late 1999, and what strategies will be needed in the future. As such, the chief topic of discussion will be the Revised World Anti-Doping Code, the core document adopted in 2003 by the Sport Movement and Governments of the world as the framework for the global harmonized fight against doping in sport. The purpose of the revision is to leverage the experience gained to date and to strengthen anti-doping programs worldwide. The World Conference will be held over a period of two and a half days, from November 15 - 17. Sessions on Day 1 (November 15) will provide a forum for the review of progress in specific areas of the fight against doping, such as science, education, finance and the athletes' role, as well as the future landscape of anti-doping. Day 2 (November 16) will be dedicated to the Revised World Anti-Doping Code and interventions made by delegates from the Governments and the Sports Movement. On the morning of Day 3 (November 17), Conference Conclusions and Resolutions will be considered for adoption. "We expect the milestones reached at this Third World Conference to be as significant as those reached during the first two conferences in their advances made to protect the athletes' health and their right to clean competition, as well as youth worldwide who admire athletic heroism and aspire to excel in sport," continued Pound. "The forward momentum created at the First World Conference of 1999, which led to the establishment of WADA as the international independent body to coordinate and monitor the global fight against doping, and continued by the Second World Conference of 2003, which saw the adoption of the Code by Sport and Governments as the basis for the global harmonized fight against doping in sport, will most surely be furthered in the strengthening of the Code this week." Concurrently, WADA's decision-making bodies—Executive Committee and Foundation Board—will hold their annual November meetings. The WADA Executive Committee will meet on November 14 and 16, to consider several items for action, including: Revised World Anti-Doping Code: The Executive Committee will discuss the draft revised Code (version 3.0) that was published on October 15, in advance of the November 17 Foundation Board meeting at which time the revised Code will be considered for adoption. Revised International Standards: The Committee will consider the revisions to the International Standards for Testing and for Laboratories to identify next steps. Code Compliance Reporting: The Executive Committee will discuss strategies for the monitoring of stakeholder compliance with the Code. Social Science Research: Recommendations of the WADA Education Committee for the allocation of grants under the 2008 Social Science Research program will be considered by the Committee. The WADA Foundation Board will meet twice on November 17, at 10h00 and at 14h00. At the 10h00 meeting, the WADA Foundation Board will, upon recommendation from the WADA Executive Committee, consider for approval the Revised World Anti-Doping Code. At the 14h00 meeting, the WADA Foundation Board will make several important decisions relating to: New Leadership: The Board is scheduled to consider for election the candidates presented by the Governments for WADA's next Chair, and by the Sports Movement for WADA's next Vice Chair, whose three-year terms begin on January 1, 2008. New Membership: As is consistent with the agenda for the Foundation Board's annual November meeting, the Board will appoint the 2008 Executive Committee, and approve the 2008 Foundation Board and Standing Committee memberships. Budget: The Foundation Board also will consider for approval the 2008 Budget, as recommended by the Executive Committee. Additional information in relation to the Conference can be found at www.wadamadrid2007.com, available in English, Spanish and French. Live Web casts, daily recordings and daily summaries of the plenary sessions of the Conference will also be available from this Web site.

Third World Conference on Doping in Sport to Open November 15

Final preparations are underway for the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport, organized by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) with the support of the High Council for Sport of Spain on November 15-17 in Madrid. Nearly 1,500 participants representing the Sport Movement, public authorities, the anti-doping community, athletes, observers, and the media, will gather at the Spanish capital's MunicipalConvention Center to discuss the state of the fight against doping in sport and consider further measures to be taken in this field. The chief topic of discussion will be the revision of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code)—the core document adopted in 2003 by the Sport Movement and Governments of the world as the framework for the global harmonized fight against doping in sport. The draft revised Code being presented to WADA's Foundation Board for approval on November 17, 2007, is the product of a broad review process, which began in April 2006, and included three stages of consultations with stakeholders and drafting. The process of revising the Code is intended to fine-tune its provisions based on the experience gained to date and to strengthen global efforts against doping in sport. The final draft revision of the Code (which was published on October 15), as well as information on the Code review and consultation process, and a Q&A highlighting the major changes envisaged in the revised Code, can be found by clicking here. The Third World Conference will also be the opportunity to review major advances made in the fight against doping since WADA's inception in late 1999, and to identify strategies to further strengthen anti-doping programs worldwide. This will include discussions as part of the Code review, as well as Conference sessions dedicated to specific areas of the fight against doping and of WADA's activities, such as science, education, the athletes' role, finance, and cooperation between anti-doping organizations and law enforcement authorities. Lastly, at its November 17 meeting, WADA's Foundation Board will appoint WADA's next president and vice-president, whose three-year terms will commence on January 1, 2008. The third term of WADA's current president, Richard W. Pound, expires on December 31, 2007. For more information on WADA's presidency, click here. Practical information in relation to the Conference, including the program and logistical details, can be found on the Conference Web site at http://www.wadamadrid2007.com/, available in English, Spanish and French. Live Web casts, daily recordings and daily summaries of the plenary sessions of the Conference will also be available from this Web site. In addition, WADA issued last week a new issue of its flagship magazine Play True. This issue, titled Record Pace, retraces the evolution of the global campaign against doping in sport, beginning with the revolutionary act of Sport and Government uniting in 1999 and continuing through to the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport. Click here to download a copy of Play True.

One Week to Third World Conference on Doping in Sport

Final preparations are underway for the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport, organized by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) with the support of the High Council for Sport of Spain on November 15-17 in Madrid. In one week from now, nearly 1,500 participants representing the Sport Movement, public authorities, the anti-doping community, athletes, observers, and the media, will gather at the Spanish capital's Municipal Convention Center to discuss the state of the fight against doping in sport and consider further measures to be taken in this field. The chief topic of discussion will be the revision of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code)—the core document adopted in 2003 by the Sport Movement and Governments of the world as the framework for the global harmonized fight against doping in sport. The draft revised Code being presented to WADA's Foundation Board for approval on November 17, 2007, is the product of a broad review process, which began in April 2006, and included three stages of consultations with stakeholders and drafting. The process of revising the Code is intended to fine-tune its provisions based on the experience gained to date and to strengthen global efforts against doping in sport. The final draft revision of the Code (which was published on October 15), as well as information on the Code review and consultation process, and a Q&A highlighting the major changes envisaged in the revised Code, can be found by clicking here. The Third World Conference will also be the opportunity to review major advances made in the fight against doping since WADA's inception in late 1999, and to identify strategies to further strengthen anti-doping programs worldwide. This will include discussions as part of the Code review, as well as Conference sessions dedicated to specific areas of the fight against doping and of WADA's activities, such as science, education, the athletes' role, finance, and cooperation between anti-doping organizations and law enforcement authorities. Lastly, at its November 17 meeting, WADA's Foundation Board will appoint WADA's next president and vice-president, whose three-year terms will commence on January 1, 2008. The third term of WADA's current president, Richard W. Pound, expires on December 31, 2007. For more information on WADA's presidency, click here. Practical information in relation to the Conference, including the program and logistical details, can be found on the Conference Web site at www.wadamadrid2007.com, available in English, Spanish and French. Live Web casts, daily recordings and daily summaries of the plenary sessions of the Conference will also be available from this Web site. In addition, WADA issued last week a new issue of its flagship magazine Play True. This issue, titled Record Pace, retraces the evolution of the global campaign against doping in sport, beginning with the revolutionary act of Sport and Government uniting in 1999 and continuing through to the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport. Click here to download a copy of Play True.

Code Review & Consultation: November

WADA has published online its November update on the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) Review & Consultation. The monthly updates help keep stakeholders apprised of Code Review & Consultation progress. The Review & Consultation is modeled on the extensive process that was used with stakeholders for the initial development of the Code and stresses practical and constructive solutions for enhancing anti-doping programs worldwide. The next update will be posted in December. Click here for the update.

Play True Magazine Explores Evolution of the Fight against Doping in Sport

A new issue of WADA’s flagship magazine, Play True, is now available. This issue, titled Record Pace, retraces the evolution of the global campaign against doping in sport, beginning with the revolutionary act of Sport and Government uniting in 1999 and continuing through to the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport, to take place November 15-17, 2007, in Madrid, Spain. Among items featured are a review of major advances and milestones in the fight against doping since WADA’s inception, including the making and revision of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), and a historical look at past World Conferences on Doping in Sport. Other features include a review of the ground-breaking work that WADA has achieved in helping to establish regional anti-doping organizations, presentations of recent WADA athlete outreach activities, and a contribution by renowned bioethicist Dr. Thomas Murray on why arguments calling for liberalization of doping in sport have fatal flaws. This issue also contains a pull-out brochure highlighting stakeholders’ obligations in relation to compliance with the Code and WADA’s resources available to assist them, 2008 being the first year that signatories must publicly report their status vis-à-vis Code compliance. Click here to download a copy of Play True.

WADA Statement Regarding Conte's Public Declarations

Mr. Victor Conte, the founder and owner of the Bay Area Laboratory Co-Operative (BALCO), who pled guilty in 2005 to illegal steroid distribution and money laundering, has made public declarations that he wants to "expose the truth" (BBC HARDtalk interview, 10 August 2007) to help in the fight against doping in sports and is willing to speak with WADA President Richard Pound in this regard. WADA has made several attempts to contact Mr. Conte in order to ascertain whether he is able to help in any legitimate way. Mr. Conte has not returned any of WADA's messages.

Conclusions of Conference on Doping in Cycling Now Available

WADA has posted online the conclusions of the Conference on Doping in Cycling, organized by the French Ministry of Health, Youth and Sport, with the participation of WADA and the International Cycling Union (UCI), on October 22-23 in Paris, France. Click here to see the conclusions.

WADA President Richard Pound Clarifies Misinformation Regarding Candidacy for Future WADA President

In a press conference on October 16, 2007, Jean-François Lamour announced his withdrawal from the race for WADA president and his resignation as its Vice President. In response to the attacks that Mr. Lamour has made on WADA, its current leadership and the process by which the next president will be selected, I wish to clarify the following facts: WADA’s statutes are clear and have been firmly adhered to throughout the process for nominating the Agency’s next president. The World Anti-Doing Agency is an equal partnership between the Sport Movement and Governments of the world. The principle of rotation between the Sport Movement and Governments in holding the leadership position of WADA is formalized in WADA Statutes: Article 7, paragraph 2: the position of WADA president is held on an alternating basis by a representative of the Olympic Movement and a representative of the public authorities Article 7, paragraph 3: the president and the vice-president must be “nominated” by the Olympic Movement or the public authorities The WADA Statutes do not contain any other rules in respect to how each entity (the Olympic Movement on the one hand, and the public authorities on the other) “nominate” their respective positions. It is therefore up to the public authorities, and the Olympic Movement, to designate, in accordance with their own methods or protocols, the candidate or candidates to be appointed president and vice-president, representing the public authorities or the Olympic Movement, in accordance with article 7, paragraph 2 of the Statutes. As previously agreed between the Sport Movement and Governments, and in accordance with the principle of rotation in WADA’s statutes, I, a representative of the Sport Movement, will step down from my position as WADA President at the end of my third term on December 31, 2007, to allow governments to hold the leadership position. Nowhere in WADA’s statutes or policies is it stated (or assumed) that the WADA Vice President will automatically become the President of WADA. While Mr. Lamour had been selected by government members of WADA’s Foundation Board in November 2006 to serve as the government representative in the position of WADA Vice President for the calendar year 2007, there was no guarantee that the governments, which are represented on the WADA Foundation Board on a continental basis, would nominate him as their sole candidate to WADA’s presidency. WADA received two nominations from governments for WADA president within the designated deadline for nominations (September 20, 2007): Jean-François Lamour (France) and John Fahey (Australia). WADA did not partake in any process development leading to a “primary.” Rather the governments met to discuss how they would select one of the two nominees to be the representative from public authorities to be put forward as president. Mr. Lamour’s suggestion that there is an “anglo-saxon” conspiracy against him is incorrect, inappropriate and neglects the fact that represented in the decision-making are representatives of all five continents. Governments have been entirely responsible for nominations and the process for electing a representative to be put forward as President. Mr. Lamour’s suggestion that WADA management and I have been involved in the discussions on the election of the future WADA president is completely false and defamatory in nature. Mr. Lamour’s withdrawal from the government selection process indicates his unwillingness to participate in a democratic process decided by the Governments themselves. Mr. Lamour has confused “lobbies” with the simple democratic process of elections. If Mr. Lamour is unable or unwilling to campaign to convince the governments (whom he was supposed to be representing in his position - until his resignation - as WADA Vice President) that he should continue to represent them as WADA’s next president, then perhaps he is not the right person to be entrusted with the leadership. Lamour’s criticism of WADA is unfounded. He has served on the Foundation Board and Executive Committee since 2005, and has served as its vice president for one year. Not once during that time has he raised any concerns about the leadership and direction of the fight against doping that had been led by WADA. His sudden about-face in his public enunciations regarding WADA is astounding, unfortunate and suspect, in view of his previous support and commitment. The whole purpose to this international agency is to harmonize rules and policies, yet Lamour’s recent proposals go counter to the entire premise behind the organization of which he was an active vice president until his resignation this week. Mr. Lamour's claim that his withdrawal is a set back for WADA and the fight against doping is a most unfortunate and ill-considered comment. It is difficult to comprehend how the significant advances in harmonization, research and education in the fight against doping in sport, led by WADA Committees and effected by WADA management, under the direction of the WADA Executive Commitee and Foundation Board should cease or alter as a result of Mr. Lamour's precipitate change of mind, in the face of an electoral challenge. Click here for the correspondence between Mr. Lamour and Mr. Pound.

Publication of the Final Draft 3.0 of the 2007 World Anti-Doping Code

WADA is pleased to publish the Final Draft 3.0 of the 2007 World Anti-Doping Code. This draft is a result of extensive consultation with stakeholders and completes a full revision of the existing World Anti-Doping Code 2003. The publication terminates the third and final stakeholder consultation phase. Adoption of the revised World Anti-Doping Code is scheduled to occur at the WADA Foundation Board Meeting during the World Conference on Doping in Sport, to be hosted in Madrid, Spain, 15-17 November 2007. WADA thanks all stakeholders who have participated in this important process for helping to strengthen the Code and for their continued commitment to doping-free sport. Click here for the final draft of the Code. Click here for the Q&A on Code Review & Consultation

World Conference Registration Closes 12 October 2007

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Code Review & Consultation: October Update

WADA has published online its October update on the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) Review & Consultation. The monthly updates help keep stakeholders apprised of Code Review & Consultation progress. The Review & Consultation is modeled on the extensive process that was used with stakeholders for the initial development of the Code and stresses practical and constructive solutions for enhancing anti-doping programs worldwide. The next update will be posted in November. Click here for the update.

WADA President Encouraged by China's Recent Progress in the Fight against Doping in Sport

During his second official visit to China, from September 25 - 28, 2007, as WADA President, Richard W. Pound congratulated Chinese anti-doping and sport officials on the progress that has been achieved in the fight against doping in China since his first visit nearly one year ago. "I am very encouraged by the progress reported during my meetings with China's sports and anti-doping leaders this week," said Mr. Pound. "Last year we had asked certain questions and provided several recommendations for the preparation of doping-free Olympic Games and for improving a strong and efficient national anti-doping program." "I was pleased to learn of the measures China has begun to implement, such as establishing an independent national anti-doping organization, increasing human and financial resources dedicated to the national testing program, building a new state-of-the-art laboratory, augmenting testing based on a strategy that emphasizes "smart" out-of-competition testing, and incorporating strong education programs that target athletes of different ages, as well as coaches and officials, in their long-term strategy for prevention. The plans outlined, many of which are already in the early phases of implementation, are first-rate and will put China among the leaders of the world in anti-doping. I look forward to learning more of China's success as it meets critical milestones in the full implementation of its programs." Mr. Pound noted the significance of China's establishment of a new anti-doping agency, the only new agency created by the central government at a time when it is trying to limit its growth. He also highlighted the progressive way in which the fight against doping is being coordinated in China, involving commitment and coordination of several governmental departments including the sports ministry, the food and drug administration and other relevant function areas, including greater cooperation with provincial and regional governments. As the international independent agency established by the Sport Movement and the Governments of the world to coordinate and monitor the global fight against doping in sport, WADA's responsibilities include tracking and encouraging national anti-doping program activities, including compliance with the World Anti-Doping Code. In meetings with high-level Chinese officials, Mr. Pound also discussed the recent reports of an international investigation, "Operation Raw Deal," initiated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, into the trafficking of doping substances possibly linked to underground laboratories located in China. "The manufacture and trafficking of illegal doping substances is an international problem that all nations must confront in an international partnership. We learned that the Chinese officials have been in active communication with the investigative authorities and are committed to rooting out any related illegal activity within Chinese borders and taking the appropriate actions," continued Mr. Pound. "The Chinese understand that not only is doping the greatest threat to ethical sports today, it has become a public health concern of paramount significance having a broad impact on society." Meetings included those with President of the Beijing Olympic Organizing Committee Mr. Liu Qi, China's Sports Minister Mr. Liu Peng, and Vice Minister Mr. Duan Shijie, who is also China's representative on the WADA Foundation Board.

WADA 2008 Prohibited List Now Published

Following its approval by WADA’s Executive Committee on September 22, the 2008 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods is now available. This List will go into effect January 1, 2008. To see the 2008 List, the 2008 Monitoring Program and a summary of modifications, click here.

Updated Q&A on WADA’s Presidency Now Available

In response to inquiries about WADA’s presidency, terms and appointments, WADA has posted online a series of Questions and Answers clarifying these points. Click here to see the Q&A.

WADA Revokes HFL Laboratory Accreditation

WADA announced today that it has revoked the accreditation of the Horseracing Forensic Laboratory (HFL) in Newmarket, Great Britain. This laboratory no longer receives from local anti-doping authorities the necessary support and the minimum number of samples (1,500 per year) requested by WADA's International Standard for Laboratories. In consequence, in agreement with the laboratory management, WADA revoked its accreditation with immediate effect. There are now 33 WADA-accredited laboratories around the world. Click here to see the list of WADA-accredited laboratories.

WADA Executive Committee Approves the 2008 Prohibited List

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WADA Executive Committee to Discuss Code Review, 2008 Prohibited List at Last Meeting before World Conference

The Executive Committee of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) will meet on September 22-23, 2007, in Montreal, Canada. This will be the last meeting of WADA's Executive Committee-WADA's ultimate policy-making body-prior to the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport, to be held on November 15-17, 2007, in Madrid, Spain. At the Montreal meeting, the Executive Committee will discuss the third working draft revision of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code)-the core document adopted in 2003 by the Sport Movement and Governments of the world as the framework for the global harmonized fight against doping in sport. The Code's third draft revision is the product of the third and final stakeholder consultation phase. The entire process of review and consultation will have taken over 18 months, and is intended to fine-tune the Code and enhance the global fight against doping in sport. The final draft will be published on October 15, 2007, and discussed and approved at the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport. (For more details on the Code review and consultation process, click here.) Executive Committee members will also consider for approval the 2008 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods, to be published by October 1, 2007, and enter into effect on January 1, 2008. The List is developed annually through a highly consultative year-long process, beginning with the circulation of a draft List among more than 1,700 stakeholders for comment. The comments received are processed by WADA's List Committee, who then presents its conclusions to the WADA Health, Medical and Research Committee, who in turn submits its final recommendations the Executive Committee at the annual September meeting. The Executive Committee then discusses the recommendations and makes a final decision. (Click here for more information on the List preparation process.) In addition, as is always the case at the annual September meeting of WADA's Executive Committee, members will approve scientific research projects for funding. Since 2001, WADA has committed more than US$31 million to scientific research targeted at identifying and detecting doping substances and methods. Other topics to be addressed include WADA's draft 2008 budget and preparations for the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport. Click here for a recording of the September 20 press conference call by WADA's President.

WADA Statement on AAA Decision Regarding Floyd Landis Case

In response to frequent requests for comments following the decision of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) panel in the case of Floyd Landis, WADA would like to state the following: WADA, as the international independent organization responsible for promoting, coordinating and monitoring the global fight against doping in sport, will now thoroughly review the panel’s decision. As with all doping cases under the jurisdiction of signatories of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), WADA will assess the sanctioning process conducted. WADA will make no further comment during the period in which appeals can be lodged to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Draft Revision of the International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemption

WADA is pleased to provide the recently revised draft International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE), version 1.0, September 2007, for stakeholder review and comment. The purpose of the International Standard for TUE is to ensure that the process of granting Therapeutic Use Exemptions is harmonized across sports and countries. This version has been re-drafted by the Code Project Team based on related feedback from the World Anti-Doping Code revision process and a TUE WADA working group proposal. As a result of this input, a revised version of the Standard (v1.0, September 2007) is available for review at the Web link below. Based on the feedback received the principles and philosophy of TUE are well accepted and considered as useful. The only major issue concerns the Abbreviated TUE process, regarding the administrative workload generated. Consequently we draw your attention to section 8.0 (retroactive process) in particular, knowing that only minor modifications have been made to the rest of the Standard. Furthermore, this draft has recently been discussed by the List and HM&R Committees, which proposed to consider another option in addition: To apply the current draft (retroactive process) only to athletes who are not part of an international Registered Testing Pool and to require a full TUE for all substances for the athletes who are part of an international Registered Testing Pool. Consequently we would be pleased if you could express your opinion and your preferred option from the following: The current proposal for a retroactive process, applying to all athletes The retroactive process, not applying to athletes who are members of an international registered testing pool and who will need a standard TUE No change to the current process of Abbreviated TUE. The deadline for feedback on this round of consultation is October 15, 2007. Please submit comment to the WADA Medical Department by e-mail to: nicole.frey@wada-ama.org, or Fax: +41 21 343 43 41. Click here for the draft revision.

WADA Welcomes Announcement of Summit on Doping in Cycling

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WADA Working Committee Vacancies

Through WADA’s policy of membership rotation, positions on each of its four Working Committees - Athlete, Education, Finance & Administration, and Health, Medical & Research – become vacant every year. WADA is therefore currently seeking nominations from its stakeholder groups for members to its 2008 Working Committees. Applications should include an accompanying letter of recommendation from one of WADA’s stakeholders, as well as an appropriate curriculum vitae providing full information relating to experience and expertise. In selecting members, the Chairs of the respective Committees, together with the Chairman of the WADA Board and the Director General will take into consideration as best as possible, equal representation of stakeholder groups, regions and genders. Please forward all nominations by Thursday 20 September 2007 to WADA’s Executive Office at marie-anne.cooper@wada-ama.org or via fax to +1 514 904 8775. For further information on the roles of the Committees and their current compositions, visit the Governance section on our Web site.

Code Review & Consultation: September 2007 Update

WADA has published online its September update on the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) Review & Consultation. The monthly updates help keep stakeholders apprised of Code Review & Consultation progress. The Review & Consultation is modeled on the extensive process that was used with stakeholders for the initial development of the Code and stresses practical and constructive solutions for enhancing anti-doping programs worldwide. The next update will be posted in October 2007. Click here for the update.

Clarification on WADA's Role at Upcoming Cycling World Championships

In response to several inquiries about WADA's role at the upcoming Cycling World Championships in Stuttgart, Germany, WADA would like to clarify the following points. WADA never conducts in-competition tests. WADA has an out-of-competition testing program that complements the international federations’ (IFs) programs to help them fulfill their responsibility under the World Anti-Doping Code. WADA participated in the first meeting of the "anti-doping steering group" of the Cycling World Championships as an observer following an invitation from the German government. On this occasion and other occasions, WADA emphasized that, as the international agency responsible for monitoring the fight against doping in sport, it has no jurisdiction or authority over events organized by an IF. To participate in an event organized by an IF in any fashion, WADA needs a formal invitation from the IF responsible early enough prior to that event. WADA offered at the first meeting of the "anti-doping steering group" to monitor testing at the Cycling World Championships through an Independent Observer mission. (Click here for more information on the Independent Observer program.) However, to date, the Agency has received no such request from the International Cycling Union (UCI), who has already signed all contracts in relation to anti-doping at the event.

ITF Implements WADA Athlete Outreach Model at US Open

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has adopted the Athlete Outreach Model developed by WADA and will use it for the first time at the US Open, to take place August 27-September 9 in New York City. At the US Open, the ITF will offer expert advice to athletes and coaches, access to printed information, such as the ITF Tennis Anti-Doping Program, the World Anti-Doping Code, wallet cards containing the WADA Prohibited List and other useful materials. Visitors will also be able to test themselves on the WADA Doping Quiz. Based on the successful WADA Outreach Program delivered at major multi-sports events and other regional events, WADA's Athlete Outreach Model was launched in early 2006 and aims at helping the sporting community to better educate athletes and their entourage about the dangers and consequences of doping through one-and-one interaction. "Partnerships are the key to building relationships and providing information directly to athletes," said WADA's Director General David Howman. "The Athlete Outreach Model is a very good example of what can be achieved when stakeholders work together to educate athletes and make sure that doping does not become an option for them. We are pleased that the ITF adopted this model to intensify its education activities." The ITF President, Francesco Ricci Bitti, said that "the ITF is pleased to partner with WADA in presenting the Athlete Outreach Model. Not only does it serve to educate athletes and support personnel about the dangers of doping and their responsibilities to themselves and the sport, but it also further strengthens our links with WADA and its vision that values and fosters doping-free sport." Click here for more information about WADA’s Athlete Outreach Model.

An Open Letter to Those Promoting Medical Supervision of Doping

Following recent statements by doctors or other individuals who consider that doping is necessary or even healthy for athletes, WADA has re-published an Open Letter from the Agency’s Medical Director, Dr Alain Garnier, refuting this stance. This Open Letter was first published in August 2006. Click here for the Open Letter. Click here for Dr Garnier’s Biography.

Code Review & Consultation: August 2007 Update

WADA has published online its August update on the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) Review & Consultation. The monthly updates help keep stakeholders apprised of Code Review & Consultation progress. The Review & Consultation is modeled on the extensive process that was used with stakeholders for the initial development of the Code and stresses practical and constructive solutions for enhancing anti-doping programs worldwide. The next update will be posted in September 2007. Click here for the update.

Play True Magazine Explores New Doping Detection Approaches

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WADA Offers to Convene High-Level Summit on Doping in Cycling

Following the recent exposure of doping cases in the Tour de France and other revelations in cycling, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) today offered to convene a high-level summit of all parties involved in cycling to have an in-depth discussion on how to deal with the problem of doping in this sport. "Without commenting on the specifics of pending cases, WADA is deeply concerned by the multiplication of doping cases and affairs in cycling," said WADA President, Richard W. Pound. "Even recent initiatives taken by cycling authorities, such as a pledge against doping and increased pressure, are obviously insufficient to deter some riders from cheating. We need to hold such a meeting urgently to see what more can be done to restore the credibility and integrity of cycling." The invitation to this summit will be extended to all parties involved in cycling–the International Cycling Union (UCI), cycling events organizers, professional cyclists, team members (including doctors, leaders, and other members of the entourage), and other individuals or organizations involved in this sport, including sponsors and broadcasters–and to selected members of the anti-doping community with expertise and experience in cycling. Themes of discussion will include full compliance with anti-doping protocols and procedures set forth by the World Anti-Doping Code and its related International Standards, review of out-of-competition testing programs, education and awareness initiatives, the development of best practice models, and any other topic that may help strengthen the fight against doping in cycling. "WADA will officially contact the parties involved in the next few days to offer to hold this summit," said WADA Director General, David Howman. "Because WADA is an independent international body and has a structure which is an equal partnership between the Sports Movement and Governments of the world, we are uniquely positioned to coordinate the fight against doping and bring together the strengths and resources of all of these partners involved. We are willing to further assist cycling in finding solutions to the doping issue."

WADA Seeks Comment on Draft Revision of the ISL

WADA is pleased to provide the recently revised draft International Standard for Laboratories (ISL), version 4.8, July 2007, for stakeholder review and comment. The purpose of the ISL is to ensure production of valid test results and evidentiary data and to achieve uniform and harmonized results and reporting from all accredited laboratories. This version has been re-drafted in response to comment from the most recent consultation period in addition to related feedback from the World Anti-Doping Code revision process. Click here to view the draft and instructions for providing comment. The deadline for feedback is August 10, 2007.

Code Review & Consultation: July 2007 Update

WADA has published online its July update on the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) Review & Consultation. The monthly updates help keep stakeholders apprised of Code Review & Consultation progress. The Review & Consultation is modeled on the extensive process that was used with stakeholders for the initial development of the Code and stresses practical and constructive solutions for enhancing anti-doping programs worldwide. The next update will be posted in August 2007. Click here for the update.

WADA Seeks Comment on Draft Revision of the IST

WADA is pleased to provide the recently revised draftInternational Standard for Testing (IST), version 2.0, June 2007, for stakeholder review and comment. The purpose of the IST is to plan for effective testing and to maintain the integrity and identity of samples, from notifying the athlete to transporting samples for analysis as well as handling whereabouts information and missed tests. This version has been re-drafted in response to comment from the most recent consultation period in addition to related feedback from the World Anti-Doping Code revision process. Click here to view the draft and instructions for providing comment. The deadline for feedback is August 10, 2007.

The Doping Quiz for your Web site: New Fun and Free Anti-Doping Educational Tool

A new educational tool—that is free and easy to implement—has just become available to stakeholders. Through WADA’s new “Doping Quiz Link Program,” stakeholders can now put the Doping Quiz on their organizations’ Web sites, giving athletes and members of the athlete entourage visiting these sites a fun and interactive way to learn more about the dangers of doping and their responsibilities under the World Anti-Doping Code. Stakeholders simply follow a few easy steps to select the Doping Quiz “Web Sticker” they prefer from several options available and the Doping Quiz (in 15 languages) becomes a part of the Web site, giving stakeholders another way to ensure that their athletes have the opportunity to learn about anti-doping. Click here for more information.

Three New RADOs Established: Central Africa, Eastern Europe and South Asia

The fight against doping in sport continues to expand to new regions of the world with the establishment of three new Regional Anti-Doping Organizations (RADO). The Central African RADO (Zone IV), launched in April 2007, is being hosted by Cameroon, whose government and National Olympic Committee (NOC) have agreed to provide office and staff to coordinate anti-doping development in the region. Belarus will be hosting the new Eastern Europe RADO which was created in March 2007. The Belarus government and NOC have agreed to provide office and staff. In South Asia, a new RADO was established in May 2007, and is being hosted by the Maldives, whose government and NOC will provide the office and staff. Click here for more information about RADOs.

Updated Q&A on Code Review & Consultation Now Available

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WADA 2006 Annual Report Now Available

WADA’s 2006 Annual Report is now available online. To read the Report, click here.

FIMS Supports WADA and the Fight Against Doping, Calls on All Sports Medicine Professionals to Oppose Doping

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Agreement Reached on New Funding Formula at 4th Asian Region Intergovernmental Meeting

Agreement to a new funding formula for WADA contributions from the Asian Region for 2008 and beyond was a key outcome achieved at the 4th Asian Region Intergovernmental meeting, held on 28-29 May 2007, in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). At the meeting, Dato Seri Azalina Dato Othman Said, Minister of Youth and Sports of Malaysia, and David Howman, WADA Director General, welcomed 53 delegates from 25 countries. This was the highest number of countries and delegates to have attended such a meeting to date. On the first day, discussion topics ranged from anti-doping programme development and Regional Anti-Doping Organisations (RADO’s), the election of a new WADA progress towards ratification by governments in the region of the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport. On day two, Directors from the WADA-accredited laboratories located in Australia, China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia and Thailand gave presentations and lead discussions on laboratory related issues.

Second Revised Draft of the World Anti-Doping Code

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Code Review & Consultation: June 2007 Update

WADA has published online its June update on the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) Review & Consultation. The monthly updates help keep stakeholders apprised of Code Review & Consultation progress. The Review & Consultation is modeled on the extensive process that was used with stakeholders for the initial development of the Code and stresses practical and constructive solutions for enhancing anti-doping programs worldwide. The second Draft Revision of the 2007 Amended Code will be sent to all stakeholders no later than June 8, 2007, to begin the third stakeholder consultation phase. Click here for the update.

WADA Announces 2008 Social Science Research Grant Program

WADA invites applications for its 2008 Social Science Research Grant Program. This Program encourages research in the social sciences to obtain information which will enable more efficient doping prevention strategies. All proposals submitted must be related to one or more of the stated Program priorities. WADA awards research grants to organizations of all types (universities, colleges, small businesses, for-profit or not-for-profit organizations, etc.). The deadline for submission for the 2008 competition is 31 August 2007. For the Call for Proposals, the Application Guidelines and other related documents, click here.

WADA anuncia su Programa de Subvenciones a Investigaciones en Ciencias Sociales para 2008

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WADA Congratulates the IRB on Anti-Doping Activities

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) congratulates the International Rugby Board (IRB) on its proposed anti-doping program to be put in place for the Rugby World Cup in France later this year. WADA has enjoyed a very close partnership with the IRB over recent years, including significant ventures where the IRB has been pivotal in advancing pilot activities in the anti-doping world, for WADA and with WADA. They include: The introduction of a model Outreach Program and its Keep Rugby Clean campaign conducted by the IRB at its Women’s Rugby World Cup and its youth events, notably the Under 19 and Under 21 World Cups. These ventures assisted WADA in producing a Model Outreach Program which can be used by all International Federations (IF), and indeed all those responsible for organizing national or international events. This provides a great educational tool for athletes, and models the program that WADA first launched at the Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, 2002. With considerable assistance from the IRB, WADA ran its first pilot Regional Anti-Doping Organization Program in Oceania. This pilot has led to one of the most successful WADA activities whereby anti-doping programs have been introduced to 104 countries, where previously no programs have been run. WADA works very closely with the IRB on its out-of-competition testing program, and is pleased with the progress shown in the breadth of this important process of sample collection. WADA President R.W. Pound: “The IRB has demonstrated a keen awareness of the problem of doping in sport and has worked on addressing the issue on a number of fronts in its own sport,” said WADA President Richard W. Pound. “Not only are they taking measures to detect doping through testing, but they have also dedicated resources to deterrence through outreach and education. In addition, their contribution to the development of regional anti-doping programs is helping to build a lasting legacy for the fight against doping in regions previously lacking in anti-doping testing and education. The IRB, who are fully code compliant and have been long-standing partners of WADA, have set a positive example in the fight to keep drugs cheats out of sport that other IFs would do well to follow. Their in and out of competition testing programs are comprehensive, as shown by their anti-doping program for this year’s Rugby World Cup which began just after the previous Rugby World Cup in 2003 with regular out of competition testing on players from the top 20 Rugby nations around the world.”

World Conference Registration Now Available

It is our pleasure to invite you to attend the third World Conference on Doping in Sport to be held in Madrid, Spain from 15-17 November 2007. As you may recall, in 1999, following the first World Conference on Doping in Sport, governments and the sports movement founded WADA in response to the urgent need to intensify efforts to combat doping in sports. It was clear then that a global strategy that combined and coordinated the resources of both sport and governments was necessary to tackle the most significant problem sport has ever faced. One of the most important tasks assigned to WADA by its constituent members following its creation was the mandate to develop the World Anti-Doping Code, a core document that provided for a framework for all anti-doping policies, rules, and regulations within sports organizations and among public authorities throughout the world. The Code’s development occurred in several stages over a number of years and followed an extensive consultation process. In early March 2003, at the second World Conference on Doping in Sport in Copenhagen, Denmark, delegates unanimously agreed to adopt the Code as the nucleus for the fight against doping in sport. The Code entered into force on 1 January 2004. Three years of experience have shown the Code to be an effective tool. However, like any living document, it requires regular review. WADA has always undertaken to coordinate this work and launched a process of review in mid-2006, on a scale similar to the consultations that led to the Code’s initial adoption. The goal has been to build on experience to fine-tune the Code. By the time this next World Conference in Madrid takes place, we anticipate that everyone with an interest in an effective fight against doping will have had ample opportunity to provide comment. A revised document will be made available prior to the Conference, and we hope that it will again meet with unanimous support from our stakeholders. Since our inception, WADA has, in addition to the Code, made several noteworthy advances in our global campaign. At the Conference we will update you on our activities and our achievements, as well as our approach towards the future. For full details on the Conference, please visit www.wadamadrid2007.com. Due to space restrictions in the main plenary conference hall, we recommend early registration before 15 August 2007. We look forward to seeing you and/or your colleagues in Madrid. With your help and attendance, this third World Conference on Doping in Sport will undoubtedly be another milestone in the history of anti-doping. Richard W. Pound President David Howman Director General

La inscripción a la Conferencia Mundial ya está disponible

Nos complace invitarle a asistir a la tercera Conferencia Mundial sobre el Dopaje en el Deporte que se celebrará en Madrid, España, del 15 al 17 de noviembre de 2007. Como recordará, en 1999, tras la primera Conferencia Mundial sobre el Dopaje en el Deporte, los gobiernos y el movimiento deportivo fundaron la AMA en respuesta a la urgente necesidad de intensificar los esfuerzos para combatir el dopaje en los deportes. Entonces estaba claro que se necesitaba una estrategia global que combinara y coordinara los recursos tanto del mundo deportivo como de los gobiernos para luchar contra el problema más importante al que se ha enfrentado nunca el deporte. Una de las labores más importantes que sus miembros constitutivos asignaron a la AMA tras su creación fue el mandato de desarrollar el Código Mundial Antidopaje, un documento central que proporcionó un marco para todas las políticas, normas y reglamentos antidopaje en el seno de las organizaciones deportivas y entre las autoridades públicas de todo el mundo. El desarrollo del Código se llevó a cabo en múltiples fases a lo largo de varios años y se sometió a un proceso exhaustivo de consulta. A principios de marzo de 2003, en la segunda Conferencia Mundial sobre el Dopaje en el Deporte en Copenhague, Dinamarca, los delegados acordaron por unanimidad adoptar el Código como núcleo de la lucha contra el dopaje en el deporte. El Código entró en vigor el 1 de enero de 2004. Tres años de experiencia han demostrado que el Código es un instrumento eficaz. Sin embargo, como cualquier documento vivo, es necesario revisarlo con regularidad. La AMA siempre se ha comprometido a coordinar esta labor y a mediados de 2006 inició un proceso de revisión a una escala similar a la de las consultas que precedieron a la adopción inicial del Código que tiene por objetivo aprovechar la experiencia adquirida para dar los últimos retoques el Código. Para cuando se celebre la próxima Conferencia Mundial en Madrid, contamos con que todos aquellos interesados en una lucha eficaz contra el dopaje habrán tenido oportunidades de sobra para facilitar sus comentarios. Antes de la conferencia se hará público un documento revisado y esperamos que reciba nuevamente el apoyo unánime de nuestros interesados. Desde nuestros comienzos, la AMA ha realizado diversos avances dignos de atención, además del Código, en nuestra campaña global. En la conferencia le pondremos al corriente de nuestras actividades y nuestros logros, así como de nuestro planteamiento de futuro. Para obtener los detalles completos sobre la Conferencia, por favor visite www.wadamadrid2007.com. Debido a restricciones de espacio en la sala de conferencias de la sesión plenaria, le recomendamos registrarse con anticipación antes del 15 de agosto del 2007. Estamos deseando verlos a usted y sus colegas en Madrid. Con su ayuda y su asistencia, la tercera Conferencia Mundial sobre el Dopaje en el Deporte, sin duda, será otro hito en la historia de la lucha contra el dopaje. Richard W. Pound Presidente David Howman Director General

Play the Game Apologizes to WADA Vice President Lamour, Retracts Article

In the Play the Game newsletter for Tuesday 8 May we brought a story about the French Sports Minister and WADA Vice-President, Mr. Jean-François Lamour, who allegedly had been tested positive for doping substances twice in his career as an international fencer. We built the story on sources that are usually reliable and on apparently solid documentation. Nevertheless, the documentation was misinterpreted and the story untrue, and Play the Game deeply regrets that it was published. As Mr. Lamour correctly states in a message Saturday 12 May, a positive A-sample in 1987 was annulled after a counter-analysis. According to our information, there was even a third analysis of the sample that resulted negative. Another alleged case in 1989 was in fact no case at all as the substance in question was never banned by the List of Prohibited Substances. Over the past 10 years, Play the Game has brought hundreds of stories into the public domain, many of them conflict-ridden or controversial. We take pride in ensuring that the information we spread is correct and true. In this case we failed. Play the Game has always enjoyed a constructive working relationship with WADA in the spirit of mutual respect for our different roles in sport. WADA has a leading position in international sport with regard to appreciating the positive value of open dialogue and independent public debate. We are therefore sorry for the damage this erroneous story may have caused to the reputation of the anti-doping work in general, and of WADA and Mr. Lamour in particular. We also encourage all media that have passed our story on to their audiences, feeling confident that Play the Game had ensured an adequate control, to pass this correction and our apologies on to the public. Last but not least, we kindly ask Mr. Jean-François Lamour, WADA and all other persons affected by the story to accept our sincere apologies. Jens Sejer Andersen Director, Play the Game

World Anti-Doping Agency Strengthens the Fight against Doping in Sport

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Statement from Jean-François Lamour, WADA Vice President

Information published recently in certain media outlets is wrong and dishonest. These media outlets, the authors, as well as all those who repeat these lies will be subject to legal action. The truth has been in the public domain for a long time. Each time that I have been asked about the facts, at the time and ever since, I have responded with complete transparency, as follows: In 1987, a counter-analysis completely exonerated me and annulled the results of the A-sample that were performed by the Macolin laboratory in Switzerland. A laboratory that, following several similar errors harming other athletes, had its accreditation withdrawn by the International Olympic Committee several weeks later. As for 1989, there is no truth behind any of the allegations. The substance in question has never been banned by the List of Prohibited Substances. In fact, the papers that had spread these untruths were condemned at the time. The timing of these "revelations" is astounding: it is very strange to see reappear false reports surrounding events that took place 20 years ago, only a few days prior to the WADA Executive Committee and Foundation Board meetings, and in a decisive year for WADA's governance. It is clear that this is more about a gross attempt to destabilize, not just me personally, but all of those who are committed to the fight against doping in sport, at the very moment in which its significant progress is becoming evident. I do not intend to be intimidated by the adversaries of the fight against doping and will continue the battle waged by WADA against the scourge of doping since its creation in 1999.

WADA Executive Committee and Board to Discuss Code Review, Current Anti-Doping Issues on May 12-13

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Asthma Medical Information to Support TUE Decisions Now Available

WADA is pleased to provide medical information on asthma to support the decisions of Therapeutic Use Exemptions Committees (TUEC). This document, available in English, was drafted in order to guide and assist TUECs in their decision-making regarding TUE applications. It was finalized based on the consensus reached in the plenary session of the Workshop on Medical Aspects of TUEs co-organized by WADA and the German National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) in Bonn, on 13 December 2006, as well as on expert input. As with all Guidelines under the World Anti-Doping Program, these documents are subject to ongoing review and reassessment. WADA encourages feedback on the content of the Guidelines and recommends that stakeholders continue to consult the WADA Web site for the latest version. Click here for more information.

Code Review & Consultation: May Update

WADA has published online its May update on the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) Review & Consultation. The monthly updates help keep stakeholders apprised of Code Review & Consultation progress. The Review & Consultation is modeled on the extensive process that was used with stakeholders for the initial development of the Code and stresses practical and constructive solutions for enhancing anti-doping programs worldwide. Click here for the update.

Fifty Countries Have Now Ratified UNESCO Convention

Fifty countries have now ratified the International Convention against Doping in Sport, the international treaty formalizing their commitment to the fight against doping in sport which entered in force on February 1, 2007, under the aegis of UNESCO. Prior to this Convention, many governments could not be legally bound by a non-governmental document such as the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), the document harmonizing regulations regarding anti-doping in all sports and all countries of the world, which entered into force on January 1, 2004. Governments accordingly drafted the International Convention under the auspices of UNESCO—the United Nations body responsible for education, science and culture—enabling them to align their domestic policies with the Code and thereby harmonizing sport rules and public legislation in the fight against doping in sport. The Convention was unanimously adopted by the 191 States present at the General Conference of UNESCO in Paris, France, on October 19, 2005. It entered in force on February 1, 2007, following the deposit at UNESCO of the 30th instrument of ratification in December 2006—a threshold required by UNESCO procedures for this treaty. Click here to find the list of countries that have ratified the Convention. Click here to visit the section of UNESCO’s Web site about the Convention and anti-doping.

Symposium calls for increased co-operation in fight against doping in sport

An international symposium of government, sport, anti-doping and law enforcement authorities, convened by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), has today called for the targeting of wide scale doping schemes involving the illegal manufacture and distribution of performance enhancing drugs, and urged increased cooperation among multiple government and law enforcement agencies around the globe to attack these sinister elements in the doping underground. Giving law enforcement agencies the framework and tools necessary to shut down the large scale doping schemes, and facilitating collaboration between law enforcement and sports authorities in their investigative work so that sport can sanction those who facilitate and profit from cheating, were key themes discussed during the two-day symposium hosted in London by UK Sport, the National Anti-Doping Organisation for the UK. "The 'upstream' organizers of doping on a broad scale, including traffickers and members of the athlete entourage, must be held accountable," said WADA Director General David Howman. "They are well-organized and well-financed individuals and groups who prey on athletes and youth and who profit from cheating while risking very little themselves. There is a necessary and inevitable evolution underway in the global fight against doping in sport, expanding beyond the traditional model that targets athletes through testing, research and education. It requires a more unified and cooperative action among law enforcement and anti-doping agencies to shut down source and supply." John Scott, Director of Drug Free Sport at UK Sport, added: "This meeting was very timely and a welcome initiative from WADA. We have been looking at this crucial issue for some time and are working with Department for Culture Media & Sport and other Government departments, such as the Home Office and Revenue & Customs, to investigate how we can make better use of existing powers, and to consider where more work might need to be done in this area." The London symposium followed on a first meeting hosted in Colorado Springs (U.S.) in November 2006 by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency and the U.S. Olympic Committee. Both included the participation of representatives of law enforcement, sport federations, national anti-doping organizations, Council of Europe and WADA. Participants discussed key principles and new strategies to facilitate tackling large-scale trafficking and doping operations and targeting the manufacturers, suppliers and the athlete entourage. Doping threatens public health. The distribution of doping substances reaches well beyond the group of elite athletes tested under the World Anti-Doping Code. Distribution through the Internet. The ease and anonymity with which doping substances are acquired via the Internet makes the coordination of investigations among law enforcement and multiple government agencies critical. A working group will follow-up on strategies discussed for the development of model protocols and guidelines.

WADA Seeks Comment on Draft Revision of the International Standard for Laboratories

As part of the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) ongoing efforts to enhance worldwide anti-doping activities under the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), each of the International Standards undergo periodic revision for fine-tuning based on consultation with WADA’s stakeholders. The International Standard for Laboratories (ISL) revision process started in June 2005 with an initial revision completed in June 2006. The first consultation period with WADA stakeholders on version 4.4 of the ISL was held in July-August 2006. The comments received were carefully considered by WADA, and modifications have been made accordingly. The second consultation period of the ISL is currently underway, and the newest draft version of the ISL (version 4.7) is available online for stakeholder review and comments. Click here for the draft revision of the ISL and the comments form.

Q&A on Strict Liability in Anti-Doping Now Available

Following frequent requests for information, as well as misleading information in the public domain concerning the principle of strict liability in anti-doping, WADA has posted online Questions & Answers clarifying several key points. To read the Q&A, click here.

Medical Information to Support the Decisions of Therapeutic Use Exemptions Committees Now Available

WADA is pleased to provide to stakeholders Medical Information to Support the Decisions of Therapeutic Use Exemptions Committees (TUEC), now available in English. This document was drafted in order to guide and assist TUECs in decision making for TUE applications. It was finalized based on the consensus reached in the plenary session of the Workshop on Medical Aspects of TUEs co-organized by WADA and the German National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) in Bonn, on 13 December 2006. The document on asthma will be available in the coming weeks. As with all Guidelines under the World Anti-Doping Program, these documents are subject to ongoing review and reassessment. WADA encourages feedback on the content of the Guidelines and recommends that stakeholders continue to consult the WADA Web site for the latest version. Click here for more information.

WADA Statement About Allegations at FINA World Championships in Melbourne

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) today expressed its great concern and disappointment following a serious breach of confidentiality that occurred as part of the FINA World Championships in Melbourne, Australia. WADA is especially shocked that the name of an athlete was apparently given to the media while no adverse analytical finding has been determined at this point. Following its policy, WADA does not comment on pending procedures. The Agency is never involved in the management of individual doping control results, which is the responsibility of the national anti-doping organization and the sports federation involved in the particular case. This particular case has not led to an analytical positive result, but is rather an unusual situation which is subject to further inquiry. Only when this process is completed and if an adverse analytical finding is then made, will WADA be informed of an athlete's name. WADA's role as relates to doping control results management is to assess the sanctioning process conducted by the relevant anti-doping organizations following completion of the process. Should WADA consider that a decision does not comply with the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), the Agency determines whether it should exercise any rights of appeal that may exist. As the international body responsible for monitoring the global fight against doping in sport, WADA expects the International Swimming Federation (FINA) and the Australian Sport Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) will deal responsibly with the matter. The apparent provision of an athlete's name to the media when it should have been kept confidential is unacceptable. WADA will discuss with its stakeholders ways to further strengthen confidentiality provisions as part of the ongoing World Anti-Doping Code review, which will culminate at the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport, to be held on November 15-17, 2007, in Madrid, Spain. For more information on the World Anti-Doping Code review and consultation, click here.

WADA President Welcomes IFs to Symposium

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New Play True Issue Explores New Paradigm in Anti-Doping

A new issue of WADA’s flagship magazine Play True dedicated to the new evolution in the fight against doping is now available. This issue provides an in-depth look at new strategies used in the fight against doping to tackle large-scale trafficking and doping operations. Among items featured are highlights from a recent research study on the international trafficking of doping substances and a look at new and innovative strategies adopted to facilitate collaboration between sport and government in investigations. Click here to download a copy of Play True.

Operation Puerto: WADA Files Request to Be Accepted as Party to the Case

On March 19, WADA filed a formal request to the judge to be accepted as a party to the Operation Puerto case—the Spanish authorities’ investigation into doping that followed seizure of prohibited substances and other material by the Spanish police last May. This criminal inquiry conducted in Spain is not focused on doping, but on endangering public health, and concerns members of the entourage of athletes. Last week, the Spanish state prosecutor appealed the decision of the judge in charge of the case to close the case without charging any individuals. Since Operation Puerto broke last May, WADA has been in contact with the Spanish government to encourage strong measures against doping and coordination of information with sports authorities. More recently, in January, WADA President Richard W. Pound met with Spanish authorities in Spain. If WADA’s request is accepted, the Agency should have access to the case file. Following appeal of an initial refusal by the judge, the International Cycling Union (UCI) was accepted two weeks ago as a party to the case. The UCI also confirmed last week that it will proceed with its own investigation and with the determination of possible anti-doping rule violations. However, it is not clear which evidence can be used as of now, since the judge ruled last year that the evidence garnered from the investigation could not be used by sports authorities as the basis for punishing athletes until the criminal investigation is completed. Under the World Anti-Doping Code, anti-doping organizations such as the UCI can sanction “non-analytical” violations, i.e., violations which do not involve a positive doping control test, such as use or possession of prohibited substance and methods, trafficking or tampering. WADA hopes that the relevant evidence will become available soon and that the judge will allow the use of the entire file for disciplinary purposes. As the international body responsible for promoting, coordinating and monitoring the global fight against doping in sport, WADA will continue to work with the Spanish authorities and the Sports Movement in order to facilitate the use of evidence by sporting authorities so that cheaters can be sanctioned and removed from competition.

WADA Seeks Comment on Draft Revision of the International Standard for Testing

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WADA Applauds Actions Targeting the Illegal Manufacture and Distribution of Doping Substances

New Era in Anti-Doping Must Involve Coordination with Law Enforcement The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) today commended recent action in the United States targeting a wide scale doping scheme involving the illegal manufacture and distribution of performance enhancing drugs, and urged increased cooperation among multiple government and law enforcement agencies around the globe to attack these sinister elements in the doping underground. “The ‘upstream’ organizers of doping on a broad scale, including traffickers and members of the athlete entourage, must be held accountable,” said WADA President Richard W. Pound. “They are well-organized and well-financed individuals and groups who prey on athletes and youth and who profit from cheating while risking very little themselves. There is a necessary and inevitable evolution underway in the global fight against doping in sport, expanding beyond the traditional model that targets athletes through testing, research and education. It requires a more unified and cooperative action among law enforcement and anti-doping agencies to shut down source and supply.” Measures have been taken affirming the jurisdiction and duty of government and law enforcement to limit the availability and movement of banned substances and to hold accountable those who facilitate their abuse. The UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport, giving governments the practical tool for aligning their domestic policies with the World Anti-Doping Code, came into formal effect on February 1, 2007. At the same time, WADA and Interpol, the world’s largest police organization, have agreed to work closely together. “These are important steps, yet more assertive and collaborative action is needed,” said WADA Director General David Howman. “We are calling on governments around the world to give law enforcement agencies the framework and tools necessary to shut down the large scale doping schemes, and to facilitate collaboration between law enforcement and sports authorities in their investigative work so that sport can sanction those who facilitate and profit from cheating.” A special issue of WADA’s flagship magazine Play True dedicated to the new evolution in the fight against doping was released today. Among items featured are highlights from a recent research study on the international trafficking of doping substances and a look at new and innovative strategies adopted to facilitate collaboration between sport and government in investigations. Click here to download a copy of Play True.

Code Review & Consultation: March Update

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Call for proposals for scientific research grants 2007

WADA is committed to increasing the volume of research dedicated to developing new and improved detection methods for performance-enhancing substances and methods. Since 2001, WADA has committed more than US$31 million to scientific research. Scientists interested in applying to WADA’s scientific research program in 2007 are invited to submit their applications by May 20, 2007. For more information about the 2007 program and applications, click here.

Llamado a concurso de proyectos de investigación científica 2007

La Agencia Mundial Antidopaje está comprometida a aumentar el volumen de investigación dedicado a desarrollar nuevos y mejores métodos de detección de sustancias y métodos dopantes. Desde el 2001, la AMA ha invertido más de 31 millones US$ en proyectos de investigación científica. Se invita a los investigadores interesados en el Programa Científico de la AMA 2007 a presentar sus propuestas hasta el 20 de mayo del 2007. Para mayores detalles sobre el programa 2007 y sus requisitos, haga clic aquí.

Enhanced Information On Regional Anti-Doping Organizations Now Available

WADA has enhanced the section of this Web site focusing on the Agency’s anti-doping development program. The intent of this program is to assist countries and organizations to develop anti-doping programs in parts of the world where there is little or no sample collection or established quality doping control programs. WADA’s strategy to achieve this is the establishment of independent Regional Anti-Doping Organizations (RADOs). Click here for more information on WADA’s anti-doping development program and updates on RADOs’ development in various parts of the world.

WADA Provides TUE Guidelines to Anti-Doping Organizations

Following consultation with key stakeholders, WADA has developed Guidelines for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUE). The purpose of these Guidelines is to support anti-doping organizations in the administrative management of TUEs and to harmonize the approach of the TUE process. Click here to view the Guidelines.

WADA Launches Its New Coaches Tool Kit

The World Ant-Doping Agency's newest education tool provides anti-doping organizations with a ready-to-deliver doping prevention workshop specially-tailored for elite coaches. Because coaches have so much influence over athletes, educating them is also an effective means of getting doping-free sport messages to competitors and their entourages. The WADA Coaches' Tool Kit is designed to assist World Anti-Doping Code signatories meet their responsibility to educate athletes, coaches and other athlete support staff about the dangers and consequences of doping in sport. The Coaches Tool Kit is available in English, French and Spanish. For more information on the Coaches' Tool Kit or on conditions for obtaining copies, click here.

IBU Athletes Report Whereabouts Using ADAMS

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ASADA Reaches Out to Future Generations

The 2007 Australian Youth Olympic Festival took place from 17 – 21 January in Sydney, Australia. The five-day event drew over 1600 athletes competing in many of the venues built for the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. The Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) took the opportunity to launch its Athlete Outreach Program at this multi-sport, multi-national event. “We were extremely pleased with the outcomes of our first Athlete Outreach Program,” said Tristan Salter, ASADA Strategic Deterrence Manager. “Having junior Australian and international athletes learn about anti-doping with ASADA experts and athlete ambassadors in a fun an interactive environment was another step forward for ASADA in the education of junior athletes in this country.” ASADA developed banners and posters using WADA’s templates as a guide and also utilized the WADA Doping Quiz, co-branded with the ASADA logo as part of the activities. Athletes who visited the ASADA program were rewarded with a prize for correctly responding to most of the questions on the quiz. “The folks at ASADA enthusiastically adapted the Athlete Outreach Model to suit their needs and initiated a program that gave over 600 future Olympians a better understanding of anti-doping,” said Stacy Spletzer, WADA’s Outreach and Athlete Programs Manager. “The success of ASADA’s first Outreach Program is a tribute to what can be done when organizations work together to raise awareness about anti-doping issues.” ASADA also engaged the participation of Australian Olympians as athlete ambassadors to help promote the program.

WADA to Further Urge Governments’ Commitment to Fight against Doping in Sport at UNESCO Convention Conference of Parties

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) announced today that it will further urge governments of the world to fulfill their responsibilities in the fight against doping in sport during the first session of the Conference of Parties to the International Convention against Doping in Sport (Convention), to be held February 5-7 at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris, France. “Governments have a key role in the fight against doping in sport,” said WADA President Richard W. Pound. “By adopting the Convention in just two years and ratifying it within under a year, they set a world record for UNESCO and signalled their strong commitment to clean sport. But this milestone is also a crossroads. Governments which haven’t ratified the treaty now need to move forward without delay. The recent rash of high-profile doping cases and investigations underscores the fact that public and sports authorities need to increase coordination of their anti-doping activities in order to further gain efficiency in this fight.” Governments’ authority, when applied to the fight against doping in sport, greatly advances efforts. For example, governments can take action against the illegal manufacture, trafficking and supply of doping substances, facilitate doping controls, support education, fund research, and take other equally important measures. During the first Conference of Parties to the International Convention against Doping in Sport, the Bureau (the Chairperson, four Vice Chairs and a Rapporteur) will be established, and the Rules of Procedure adopted. Other key items for discussion include administration of the Fund for the Elimination of Doping in Sport (a fund to build anti-doping capacity around the world) and consideration of a monitoring framework in support of the Convention. The Conference of Parties will also adopt the 2007 Prohibited List. WADA Vice President, French Minister of Youth, Sport and Voluntary Work Jean-François Lamour, and WADA Director General David Howman will address delegates and stress the importance of governments’ action in the fight against doping. The International Convention against Doping in Sport is the treaty formalizing the commitment of governments to the fight against doping in sport. Until now, many governments could not be legally bound by a non-governmental document such as the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), the document harmonizing regulations regarding anti-doping in all sports and all countries of the world, which entered into force on January 1, 2004. Governments accordingly drafted the International Convention under the auspices of UNESCO—the United Nations body responsible for education, science and culture—enabling them to align their domestic policies with the Code and thereby harmonizing sport rules and public legislation in the fight against doping in sport. The Convention was unanimously adopted by the 191 States present at the General Conference of UNESCO in Paris, France, on October 19, 2005. The Convention entered in force yesterday, February 1, following the deposit at UNESCO of the 30th instrument of ratification on December 11—a threshold required by UNESCO procedures for this treaty. As of today, 45 countries have ratified the Convention. Click here to find the list of countries that have ratified the Convention. Click here to visit the section of UNESCO’s Web site about the Convention and anti-doping.

Updated Q&A on Human Growth Hormone Testing

Following frequent requests for information, WADA has posted online an updated version of its series of Questions and Answers regarding the testing of human growth hormone (hGH). Click here for the Q&A

Code Review: February 2007 Update

WADA has published online its February update on the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) Review & Consultation. The monthly updates help keep stakeholders apprised of Code Review & Consultation progress. The Review & Consultation is modeled on the extensive process that was used with stakeholders for the initial development of the Code and stresses practical and constructive solutions for enhancing anti-doping programs worldwide. WADA also reminds stakeholders to mark their calendars for the 2007 World Conference on Doping in Sport, to be hosted in Madrid (Spain) on 15-17 November. Click here for the update.

WADA Advances Athlete's Passport

WADA is pleased to announce its support of Athletes for Transparency (AFT), a pilot research study launched in France for the longitudinal follow-up of athlete biological parameters. The AFT project advances the concept of the Athlete's Passport which WADA has been developing since 2002 and whose objective would be to track biological data from athletes over a period of time in order to identify abnormal profiles in the context of the fight against doping. Momentum for this area of research has picked up recently, in large part due to questions raised during the 2006 Olympic Winter Games surrounding “no start” suspensions of athletes by their federations following health checks that reported high haemoglobin levels. (While high haemoglobin levels may result from high altitude training, some have questioned whether the large number of athletes returning high haemoglobin levels might indicate doping.) Since the 2006 Turin Games, WADA has convened several meetings of sports and anti-doping experts to explore and develop the concept. The consensus of these expert meetings is that the analysis of blood parameters should be considered as part of the anti-doping process itself as it can help to identify suspicious profiles. It has also been agreed that longitudinal analysis of athlete blood parameters should be registered in a database, to be used in target testing and sanctioning when abnormal values are observed. WADA decided to support the AFT pilot because it will help to study the technical, scientific and legal feasibility of the Athlete's Passport concept, as well as provide the opportunity to test and develop the most appropriate models for decision-making in relation to abnormal profiles.

Presentations from WADA Media Symposium now Online

WADA has now posted in the new Media Center of this Web site speeches and presentations from the Agency’s Media Symposium, held on January 24 at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland. WADA’s revised press kit can also be downloaded from the Media Center. To access this new section, click here.

First Draft Revision of Code Now Available

The first Draft Revision of the World Anti-Doping Code has now been posted online. This document is the result of direct feedback from and face-to-face meetings with stakeholders as part of the first of three consultation phases and is available in English. The Code review and consultation process will culminate at the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport taking place in Madrid, Spain, 15-17 November 2007. Click here for the first Draft Revision of the Code, comments from stakeholders, and more information about the Code review process.

WADA Welcomes Swiss Federal Court Decision on Danilo Hondo

WADA was informed on January 12 of the decision of the Swiss Federal Court—the Swiss Supreme Court—to dismiss the appeal filed by cyclist Danilo Hondo against the two-year sanction imposed to him by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (and confirmed by the Court of Appeal of Canton de Vaud in Lausanne, Switzerland) for testing positive for the prohibited substance Carphedon. The award with the grounds has not yet been communicated by the Court. However, this decision means that the athlete is no longer allowed to compete.

January Update on Code Review & Consultation

WADA has published online its January update on the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) Review & Consultation. The monthly updates help keep stakeholders apprised of Code Review & Consultation progress. The Review & Consultation is modeled on the extensive process that was used with stakeholders for the initial development of the Code and stresses practical and constructive solutions for enhancing anti-doping programs worldwide. Click here for the update.

WADA Applauds Swift Ratification by Governments of International Convention against Doping in Sport

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) welcomed today the deposit at UNESCO of the 30th instrument of ratification of the International Convention against Doping in Sport (Convention) by the government of Luxembourg. Reaching the threshold of 30 ratifications, required by UNESCO procedures for this convention, means that the first global treaty against doping in sport will enter into force on February 1, 2007. “The Convention’s entry into force signals the strong commitment of the governments of the world to the fight against doping in sport,” said WADA President Richard W. Pound. “The drafting and unanimous adoption of this Convention in just two years is a world record for international treaties, and now its entry into force within under a year of its adoption is another record in the history of UNESCO. We warmly commend and thank UNESCO for facilitating the process, and we look forward to the ratification of the Convention by all governments of the world.” The International Convention against Doping in Sport is the treaty formalizing the commitment of governments to the fight against doping in sport. Until now, many governments could not be legally bound by a non-governmental document such as the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), the document harmonizing regulations regarding anti-doping in all sports and all countries of the world, which entered into force on January 1, 2004. Governments accordingly drafted the International Convention under the auspices of UNESCO - the United Nations body responsible for education, science and culture - enabling them to align their domestic policies with the Code and thereby harmonizing sport rules and public legislation in the fight against doping in sport. This Convention was unanimously adopted by the 191 States present at the General Conference of UNESCO in Paris, France, on October 19, 2005. “The speed at which governments are ratifying the Convention clearly shows that public authorities are well aware of the importance of stemming the scourge of doping in sport and its impact on pubic health. Governments also recognize the need to partner with the sports movement to coordinate efforts for efficiency and effectiveness in anti-doping,” said WADA Vice-President and Minister for Culture and Sport in Denmark Brian Mikkelsen. “The commitment of governments to this fight has been highlighted by their decisive action in a number of recent high-profile cases and investigations, and I am certain that the partnership between governments and the sports movement, facilitated by WADA, will continue to grow.” Governments’ authority, when applied to the fight against doping, greatly advances efforts. For example, governments can take action against the illegal manufacture and supply of doping substances, facilitate doping controls, support education, fund research, and take other equally important measures. Some 186 countries have signed the Copenhagen Declaration on Anti-Doping in Sport, the political document through which governments show their intention to implement the World Anti-Doping Code through ratification of the UNESCO Convention. It is expected that all of them will ratify the Convention for practical implementation of the universally accepted anti-doping rules and principles. You can find the list of countries that have ratified the Convention and more information on the Convention by clicking here. The UNESCO Web site also provides valuable information on the Convention: www.unesco.org/en/antidoping

December Update on Code Review & Consultation

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WADA in Force at 2006 Asian Games

WADA will be present through a number of programs at the 2006 Asian Games, to take place December 1-15 in Doha, Qatar. WADA’s Independent Observers will monitor doping control and results management, while an Athlete Outreach team will interact with athletes and inform them about anti-doping in the Athletes Village. A Media Information booth will also be on hand during the first days of the Games in the Main Media Center. And ADAMS (Anti-Doping Administration & Management System), the web-based database management system developed by WADA, will be used by the Asian Games organizers to manage their doping control activities. The Asian Games, which take place every four years, are to gather 11,000 athletes from 45 countries and regions in Doha.

WADA Clarifies B-Sample Procedure

Following misleading information in the public domain, it was clarified at the meetings of WADA’s Executive Committee and Foundation Board on November 19-20 that there is no consideration of abandoning the current doping control procedure which allows an athlete whose A-sample has revealed the presence of a prohibited substance or method to request the analysis of his or her B-sample. “The B-sample helps confirm that an anti-doping rule violation has occurred and protects the rights of the athletes,” said WADA Director General David Howman. “It should be stressed that anti-doping is one of the few types of controls in society in which a confirmation procedure is used in order to protect individuals, and the very rare cases in which the analysis of the B-sample did not match the results of the A-sample have shown the usefulness of such procedure.” As part of the ongoing revision of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code)—the core document that provides the framework for harmonized anti-doping policies, rules and regulations within sport organizations and among public authorities—a number of stakeholders have suggested considering anti-doping rule violations on the basis of one sample if other available evidence demonstrates to the satisfaction of the panel that the athlete was doping. The first draft of the revised Code will be sent to stakeholders and published in January 2007 for the second of three phases of consultation. This consultation will culminate at the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport, to be held November 15-17 in Madrid, Spain. Click here for more information on the Code review and consultation.

WADA Board Elects Jean-François Lamour as 2007 WADA Vice President

Agency Stresses the Need to Coordinate Sport and Government Collaboration to Enable Sport to Deal with Cheating on a Timely Basis The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) today unanimously elected Jean-François Lamour, French Minister of Youth, Sport and Voluntary Work, to serve as the Agency’s next vice president. Minister Lamour, whose one-year term begins in January 2007, will replace Brian Mikkelsen, Danish Minister of Sport, who is completing his second of two consecutive one-year terms. “Jean-François is immensely respected for his work on behalf of clean sport, both in his country and as European representative on WADA’s Executive Committee,” said WADA President Richard Pound. “He will play a significant role in advancing the goals and initiatives of WADA.” “I believe that WADA has made great strides in the global fight against doping sport, and that we have an important duty now to ensure success in meeting our current and future challenges,” Lamour said. “I look forward to intensifying my contribution to the initiatives and mission of the Agency to protect the integrity of sport and the health of athletes worldwide.” Executive Committee for 2007 The Foundation Board unanimously approved changes to the Executive Committee for 2007: Denmark replacing France as the European representative, and New Zealand replacing Australia as the Oceania representative. Constitutional Amendments WADA's Board also approved constitutional amendments involving Board membership and representation. The changes allow an increase of the Foundation Board membership from 36 to 38, and consequently permit the selection of its president and vice president from outside of the officially-designated representatives of specific stakeholders. The Board approved the removal of the restriction limiting service of individuals to three terms of three years, and supported the principle of rotation of sport and government representation in the president and vice-president seats, with a limitation on consecutive tenure to six years unless no alternative nomination is made. Policy Statement on WADA’s Mission The Executive Committee reiterated that WADA’s primary mission is to act as the monitoring watchdog for the implementation of and compliance with the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), and that the Agency fulfills these responsibilities as directed by the Foundation Board and Executive Committee. It is not a service organization for international sports federations. Code Review & Consultation WADA's Executive Committee and Foundation Board discussed the working draft revision of the Code, the result of the first of three consultation phases with stakeholders. “The Code represents a unique and unprecedented triumph of Sport and Government joining forces to address a critical problem threatening public health and the integrity of sport,” said Pound. “Now, with several years of practical implementation and experience, we are working with stakeholders in the enhancement of its provisions for an even more robust anti-doping system worldwide.” The feedback received from the Executive Committee and the Foundation Board will be incorporated and the first revised draft will be sent to stakeholders in January 2007 to begin the second consultation phase. The Code review will culminate at the Third World Conference on Doping in Sport, held by WADA in partnership with the Government of Spain on November 15-17, 2007, in Madrid, Spain. Budget The Foundation Board approved US$23 million for WADA’s 2007 budget, representing a minor increase of three percent over the 2006 budget. As regards funding, the Agency has now received 93 percent of its 2006 budget. WADA’s funding is provided equally by governments of the world and sport. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), on behalf of the Olympic Movement, matches dollar for dollar contributions made by governments. UNESCO Convention and Government Role Board members discussed the critical role of governments in the global fight against doping. To date, 27 governments have ratified the International Convention against Doping in Sport (Convention). The Convention was unanimously adopted by the General Conference of UNESCO at its plenary session in Paris on 19 October 2005. Once 30 ratifications are received, the Convention will formally enter into force. “The Convention holds the record for being the fastest drafted and the fastest ratified within UNESCO, as its formal ratification is expected to be completed within less than one year of its being sent to governments for ratification,” said WADA Director General David Howman. “This is a clear demonstration of international governmental support for anti-doping. It leads the way for governments to align their domestic policies with the Code and facilitates cooperation and coordination among sport and government in the fight against doping.” Until now, many governments could not be legally bound by a non-governmental document such as the Code. Governments accordingly drafted the International Convention under the auspices of UNESCO, enabling them to align their domestic legislation with the Code and thereby harmonizing the sport and public legislation in the fight against doping in sport. Recent high-profile doping investigations and cases have shown just how important government action and cooperation between the Sport Movement and public authorities are in the ability to effectively combat doping. Board members also stressed that the coordination of efforts is critical to enable sports authorities to deal with doping athletes in a timely fashion. Social Science Research WADA will commit nearly US$178,000 to projects in Social Behavioural Research to look at the motivation behind the use of doping in sport. “Understanding the behavioural aspects and value judgments behind doping will help us to develop and disseminate strong values-based anti-doping education programs,” said WADA Director General David Howman. WADA received 29 research applications, and the Executive Committee approved the funding of 6. Laboratory Accreditation WADA’s Executive Committee approved the re-accreditation of the 33 anti-doping laboratories located around the world. Following the recent approval by the Executive Committee of accreditation for a new laboratory in Salt Lake City (USA), the Sport Medicine Research and Testing Laboratory, there are now 34 anti-doping laboratories accredited to perform the analysis of doping control for sports under the World Anti-Doping Code. These laboratories are required to achieve and maintain accreditation from WADA, according to the criteria established in the International Standard for Laboratories and its related technical documents. Anti-Doping Development WADA reported that 91 countries previously not actively involved in anti-doping are now engaged in the fight against doping in sport through Regional Anti-Doping Organizations (RADOs). WADA coordinates the creation of RADOs, independent organizations that assume responsibility for testing, education, and other anti-doping activities in under-served regions of the world, combining the resources of several countries. The long-term objective of WADA’s RADO development program is for all nations of the world to be actively participating in the global harmonized anti-doping campaign by 2010.