WADA Statement on X Games in Norway

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) was concerned to learn of the absence of a quality anti-doping testing program at the X Games, which begins in Oslo on Wednesday, 24 February.

WADA is aware that discussions between the organizers have been ongoing, but that agreement has not been reached to run an in-competition testing program for the five-day event.

“Whilst the X Games is an independent, privately-run event, it is still surprising and regrettable to learn that there will be no anti-doping testing program in place for athletes during the Games,” said WADA Director General, David Howman. “This sends the wrong message to athletes at a fragile time for clean sport worldwide.”

“WADA would like to echo the sentiments expressed by Anti-Doping Norway who are a very committed partner in the protection of clean athletes, and who, as the national anti-doping agency for Norway, are also deeply disappointed by the situation,” added Howman. 

“Norway is a signatory to the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport and, as an event that receives public authority funding, we would expect the X Games to adopt a quality anti-doping program so that the athletes, and indeed the public, can have confidence in the competition.”