MOSCOW, Mar 8 against doping in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus against the backdrop of the situation in Ukraine. It is noted that this was done in order to «preserve the integrity of the global anti-doping system as much as possible, taking into account the circumstances.»
"As a world leader in the fight against doping , WADA has reached out to a number of stakeholders for advice on how best to conduct athlete testing and other aspects of the anti-doping system in Ukraine, Russia and Belarus. This testing guide emphasizes that safety for all is our primary concern, and provides guidance to minimize disruptions to the system", said WADA Director General Olivier Niggli, quoted by the agency's official website.
WADA contacted Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) and confirmed that its anti-doping program continues to operate. WADA encourages continued testing of Russian athletes both in Russia and abroad. RUSADA has confirmed to WADA that, despite some transportation issues, RUSADA is still able to deliver urine and blood samples to WADA-accredited laboratories in Europe in a timely manner. Russian athletes should continue to provide information about their whereabouts. Also, WADA calls for continued testing of Belarusian athletes both in the country and abroad, athletes should continue to provide information about their whereabouts. International DCOs wishing to test in Belarus are advised to contact the National Anti-Doping Agency of Belarus.