The 144th IOC Session praised the independent testing program for the Paris 2024 Olympics as a landmark for clean sport. ITA Chair Dr. Valérie Fourneyron highlighted the rigorous testing measures implemented, achieving historic sampling numbers and cooperation across stakeholders. WADA President Witold Bańka acknowledged significant achievements in anti-doping efforts, indicating a collective commitment to fair play.

The 144th International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session commended the independent testing program established for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, recognizing its importance for clean sport. ITA Chair Dr. Valérie Fourneyron noted that Paris 2024 has introduced an unprecedented level of rigor with 90% of athletes tested prior to competition, particularly in high-risk sports and delegations. During the Games, over 6,100 samples were collected from participants across 200 National Olympic Committees, illustrating a commitment to rigorous anti-doping measures.

Dr. Fourneyron emphasized that all National Olympic Committees (NOCs) received guidance on clean sport education, enhancing preparedness for athletes and supporting personnel. She credited the cooperation from the Organising Committee and French authorities for the initiative’s success. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) President Witold Bańka also praised the ITA and the collaborative efforts within the international anti-doping community, establishing this as the most robust testing program in Olympic history, setting a benchmark for future events.

The establishment of the ITA in 2018 was supported by a USD 30 million funding commitment from the IOC. Looking ahead, the IOC has pledged an additional USD 10 million to further develop the Agency through 2028. Dr. Fourneyron reflected on the ITA’s evolution since its inception, highlighting its independent model as a landmark decision bolstered by the IOC’s full delegation of anti-doping responsibilities to the ITA.

Over eight years, the ITA has established trust through independence, transparency, and a commitment to putting athletes first. Today, it stands as a leader in global anti-doping efforts, aiming to ensure compliance while developing technology and data analysis tools to promote clean sport.

Dr. Fourneyron concluded by urging unity among stakeholders to tackle future challenges. Calling upon the IOC, international sporting entities, and private sector partners to collaborate, she stressed the need for a strategic approach to uphold the values of sport at upcoming global sporting events, drawing on the expertise developed from prior experiences.

In his address, President Bańka expressed gratitude for IOC President Bach’s unwavering support for anti-doping initiatives. He acknowledged the Olympic Agenda’s role in advancing anti-doping standards and securing funding for critical research. Bańka provided insights into WADA’s recent achievements, including the dismantling of illicit laboratories and significant seizures of performance-enhancing drugs.

WADA is also progressing towards establishing a Global Anti-Doping Intelligence and Investigations Network to expose and mitigate threats to clean sport effectively. Bańka condemned the concept of “Enhanced Games,” declaring it harmful and misaligned with the health priorities for athletes.

WADA’s strategic plan for 2025-2029 focuses on refining the World Anti-Doping Code and enhancing education for athletes regarding doping dangers. Over 362,000 athletes have engaged with WADA’s educational initiatives, reflecting a dedication to building awareness and maintaining the integrity of sport. Bańka reiterated the importance of partnerships in the anti-doping landscape, underscoring ongoing commitments to transparency, fairness, and athlete protection.

The 144th IOC Session marked a significant recognition of the independent testing program for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, setting a new standard for anti-doping efforts globally. Collaborative initiatives among the IOC, ITA, and WADA demonstrate a united effort toward promoting clean sport. With continued investments and strategic planning, the anti-doping framework aims to uphold athlete integrity while educating the sporting community on the importance of ethical practices.

Original Source: olympics.com

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