The World Anti-Doping Agency remains skeptical of Russia

Speaking at WADA’s annual symposium in Lausanne, WADA president Witold Banka said he had received letters from several athletes who were concerned about the participation of Russian athletes in the Paris Olympics.

“What I can tell you is that everyone is going to be testedBanka said and explained that the International Testing Agency (ITA) as well as the various international sports federations collect samples from athletes within Russia as well as those who train or compete abroad while he said that the Russian anti-doping agency RUSADA conducts the necessary number of tests and that all samples are transported to WADA-accredited laboratories outside the country.

“But regardless of all this, WADA remains deeply suspicious and concerned about RussiaBanka said.

“We must remain vigilant and leave no stone unturned to ensure that all necessary training and testing is carried out ahead of Paris“, he added.

Russia has for years been embroiled in doping scandals that forced its athletes not to compete under their flag and national colors. While the Russians acknowledge some failings in their anti-doping procedures, they deny the existence of any broader state-sponsored doping scheme.

It is recalled that the international participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes was prohibited, after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, an invasion in which Belarusian territories have been used as a station for troops and weapons. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) later issued recommendations to international federations to allow athletes from the countries in question to return. Neutral Russian and Belarusian athletes will compete without their country’s flags, emblems or national anthem. Finally, those athletes who actively support the war in Ukraine or are contracted to the Russian or Belarusian military will not be selected.