In response to substandard anti-doping programs, track and field athletes from Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Portugal will undergo stricter drug testing protocols ahead of the Paris Olympics, the Athletics Integrity Unit announced on Monday.
The decision comes after these countries failed to improve their anti-doping measures following the 2022 World Championships in Eugene, Oregon. The Athletics Integrity Unit described the targeted testing as “unprecedented” and emphasized the importance of enhancing no-notice testing, particularly in light of the upcoming Olympics.
During the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil were found to have insufficient out-of-competition testing for their teams, leading to the implementation of stricter measures.
A minimum of three no-notice samples
World Athletics has supported the Athletics Integrity Unit’s recommendation, stipulating that non-elite athletes from the four countries must provide a minimum of three no-notice samples during training in the 10 months leading up to July 4, preceding the Paris Olympics.
To ensure fair competition, stricter testing will be enforced for athletes participating in endurance events, with requirements including blood sample testing for biological passports and EPO detection. These measures will primarily target athletes outside the top 10 world rankings in their respective events.
AIU Chairman David Howman emphasized the seriousness of the measures, stating, “In this Olympic year, we trust this will be a reminder to all member federations that the AIU and World Athletics are extremely serious about ensuring a level playing field for athletes.”
Enhanced testing aims to safeguard the integrity of the Olympics
The enhanced testing aims to safeguard the integrity of the Olympics from potential doping violations, particularly among athletes who rapidly ascend through the rankings or deliver unexpected performances.
Additionally, the Athletics Integrity Unit praised the Czech Republic and New Zealand for significant improvements in their anti-doping programs since the 2022 World Championships, highlighting their commitment to ensuring fair competition in track and field.
