The UK Anti-Doping Agency (UKAD) statement on RUSADA’s recommencement of testing

Press Release

27 June 2017

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) today announced that the Agency and its independent Compliance Review Committee (CRC) permit the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) to plan and coordinate testing. RUSADA is authorised to do so, using its trained Doping Control Officers (DCOs), under the supervision of WADA-appointed International Experts.

WADA Director General, Olivier Niggli praised UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) in the role it has played during RUSADA’s period of non-compliance. “At this juncture, WADA would also like to acknowledge the efforts of all involved in working alongside the Agency to rebuild a credible anti-doping system in Russia.

“We would particularly like to recognise UKAD, which has ensured that targeted and intelligence-led testing be carried out on athletes inside and outside of the country during RUSADA’s period of non-compliance. UKAD’s work in Russia is an excellent example of how an established and world-renowned National Anti-Doping Organization (NADO) can help mentor another NADO in need of support.”

UKAD Chief Executive Nicole Sapstead said, “We welcome today’s news that RUSADA is now in a position to recommence the testing of their athletes. Since February 2016 UKAD has been delivering the testing programme for Russian athletes, during RUSADA’s period of non-compliance.

“As one of the world’s more experienced national anti-doping organisations, with a strategic imperative to level the playing field for our athletes, it is incumbent on us to share our experience and expertise with a range of international partners, and to support those countries or organisations where a void is created, so we can safeguard clean athletes around the world.”

The full WADA press release is available on their website.

Wednesday, 28 June 2017