WADA issues Testing Guidance for Anti-Doping Organizations following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) continues to be appalled by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the devastating war that is ongoing.

WADA President Witold Bańka said: “WADA is monitoring the horrific situation in Ukraine, which is changing on a daily basis. We are in regular contact with our colleagues from Ukraine’s National Anti-Doping Organization (NADC), which has temporarily halted its operations. The safety of our colleagues at the NADC, as well as all Ukrainian athletes and other citizens, is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. We condemn this act of aggression by Russia and stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine in these most difficult and dangerous of times.”

In order to maintain the integrity of the global anti-doping system as much as possible given the circumstances, today WADA is issuing Testing Guidance for Anti-Doping Organizations (ADOs), with specific instructions and advice when it comes to anti-doping in Ukraine, Russia and Belarus.

WADA Director General Olivier Niggli said: “As the global leader of anti-doping, WADA has been contacted by a number of stakeholders seeking guidance on how best to handle the testing of athletes and other aspects of the anti-doping system in Ukraine, Russia and Belarus. This Testing Guidance emphasizes safety for all as our primary concern and provides direction to ensure that disruption to the system is minimized.”

WADA will continue to monitor developments and update this Guidance as necessary as the situation evolves.