WADA Challenges India to Address Persistent Doping Issues Ahead of Major Games
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has urged India to intensify efforts against doping, identifying the nation as its worst offender for three consecutive years. With India scheduled to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and bidding for the 2036 Olympics, WADA President Witold Banka highlighted the widespread availability of performance-enhancing drugs in the country. During a press briefing in Seoul, Banka noted productive discussions with Indian stakeholders, including the Sports Minister, National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), to dismantle doping networks. NADA has doubled its testing volume from 4,000 samples in 2019 to 8,000 in 2025, though this remains lower than other major nations. WADA officials emphasized that rising positive test results may indicate improved detection efficiency rather than increased cheating. The agency also stressed the need to target suppliers, coaches, and enablers rather than penalizing athletes who may be victims. While cricket’s return to the 2028 Olympics raised questions about specific sport targeting, WADA maintained a focus on high-risk sports overall, ensuring a broader anti-doping strategy.
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WADA Challenges India to Address Persistent Doping Issues Ahead of Major Games
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has urged India to intensify efforts against doping, identifying the nation as its worst offender for three consecutive years. With India scheduled to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and bidding for the 2036 Olympics, WADA President Witold Banka highlighted the widespread availability of performance-enhancing drugs in the country. During a press briefing in Seoul, Banka noted productive discussions with Indian stakeholders, including the Sports Minister, National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), to dismantle doping networks. NADA has doubled its testing volume from 4,000 samples in 2019 to 8,000 in 2025, though this remains lower than other major nations. WADA officials emphasized that rising positive test results may indicate improved detection efficiency rather than increased cheating. The agency also stressed the need to target suppliers, coaches, and enablers rather than penalizing athletes who may be victims. While cricket’s return to the 2028 Olympics raised questions about specific sport targeting, WADA maintained a focus on high-risk sports overall, ensuring a broader anti-doping strategy.
AP News