WAADS Statement regarding Russian laboratory and in support of a strong WADA

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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