The World Association of Anti-Doping Scientists is aware of the tensions exposed in
the media between the International Olympic Committee and the World Anti-Doping
Agency. We deplore and view these attempts to undermine the credibility of World
Anti-Doping Agency as counter-productive. IOC members accusing WADA of being
responsible for the actions of the Russian laboratory is incomprehensible and
manifestly unfair.
It is well known that the Agency actively tried to document corruption and to suspend
the laboratory before the Sochi Games. These allegations could not be proven at the
time, with its now loquacious director denying everything, claiming abusive treatment
from WADA.
The widespread collusion and subterfuges deployed were fully exposed by two
commissions that were put in place by WADA. For years, the Russian laboratory had
been assisting and monitoring doping, helping to evade detection by manipulating
samples and results of Russian athletes.
Needless to say, all of us but particularly those WAADS members who provided
support to the laboratory operations during the Sochi Games were shocked, felt
manipulated and betrayed following the revelations made earlier this year by its
former director, Grigory Rodchenkov and subsequently verified by independent
investigations.
Therefore, in the current circumstances, we support a strong WADA and we oppose
any attempt to subvert its role and leadership. No one but the dopers could benefit
from these internal fights and we urge all parties, WADA, Olympic movement,
governments, anti-doping authorities, athletes and scientists to regroup and show a
united front.
Notes for Editors
The World Association of Anti-Doping Scientists was established in 1999.
WAADS represents all WADA accredited laboratories as a scientific organization.
Further information about WAADS and this press release should be addressed to:
Christiane Ayotte (christiane.ayotte@iaf.inrs.ca)
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