The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced on Monday that athletes from Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Portugal will be subjected to more stringent out-of-competition drug testing ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, set to commence on July 26.
This decision follows the AIU’s assessment that these countries’ national testing programs were insufficient. After the World Athletics Championships 2022 in Eugene, the AIU issued clear warnings to the four federations regarding their lackluster testing efforts. Despite these cautions, all four nations failed to implement proportionate out-of-competition testing for their teams at the subsequent World Athletics Championships in Budapest in 2023.
In response, the AIU Board recommended to the World Athletics Council that athletes from these countries face enhanced testing requirements. The Council approved these recommendations, mandating that athletes from Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Portugal must undergo at least three no-notice out-of-competition tests. Each test must be conducted at least three weeks apart before July 4, 2024, to be eligible for participation in the Paris Olympic Games.
The AIU’s move underscores a commitment to maintaining the integrity of athletics by ensuring a level playing field for all competitors. Enhanced testing protocols aim to deter and detect doping violations, safeguarding the sport’s reputation and the athletes’ wellbeing.
As the countdown to Paris 2024 continues, athletes from around the world are intensifying their preparations. The AIU’s decision serves as a reminder of the importance of clean competition and the global efforts to uphold the highest standards in athletics.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
